2010 Die Cast Buys of the Week

[KG_Jag]

We will start our fifth year of featuring certain die cast items each week. During 2009 we posted 222 selections, including a few items which appeared more than once (generally from a different vendor) over the year. Those selections came from over 60 different vendors. Our mission is to provide an independent voice--highlighting some of the best values each week to the military die cast collector.

It is probably true that such an effort can never be completely objective. What we like, may not be exactly what you like, in terms of model type, scale, quality, manufacturer or other factors. That said; we try to include selections for both the most serious and budget minded collectors. We have certain dealers who have established outstanding reputations for product, prices and customer service. So these vendors probably receive more views than some others in the process of making our selections each week. There is also at least one vendor who we have never featured, due to poor customer service and relations experienced with him. Other dealers are outstanding in most respects--and may even have the very best customer service, but tend to have higher prices and few, if any, reduced price sales. As a result, their products tend to be recommended less than those with good products and outstanding prices, even if their customer service is of a lower quality.

We use the term "die cast" somewhat liberally, as we feature not only traditional die cast items, but also resin, wood and mostly plastic items as well. The keys are that each featured item come pre-painted and requires either little or no assembly.

The selections for 2010 begin with...two AFV's picks from The Flying Mule's Winter Sale and Dragon. The first checks in at 8.25" in length and a width of 4'. Offered at only $39.99, it is the Dragon Models 1:35 scale Armor 61017 Henschel/Porsche Sd.Kfz.182 King Tiger--German Army 1./sPzAbt 101, #111, France, 1944.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/DM-61017_01_lrg.jpg

Weighing 69.8 tons, Germany’s King Tiger tank entered production in mid-1944. It was an impressive vehicle, and being the final tank design to enter production during WWII, it could be seen as the pinnacle of German tank design. The King Tiger was armed with an 8.8cm KwK 43 L/71 gun and its frontal armor was up to 180mm thick. Such a formidable fighting machine had weaknesses though, since its heavy bulk and underpowered engine meant it wasn’t as mobile as it should have been. Dragon Armor has launched its latest fully built-up 1/35 scale model of a King Tiger Henschel production version which is based on a tank from 1./s.Pz.Abt.101 that fought in France 1944. Dragon’s 1/35 scale tank is distinctive with a full coat of Zimmerit on the hull and turret. This copy of the original antimagnetic mine paste has been carefully and realistically crafted and textured to scale. The typical camouflage scheme is well painted, along with tactical markings painted over the Zimmerit in a most realistic manner.

Henschel/Porsche Sd.Kfz.182 King Tiger (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_TNK_SDKFZ182)

Officially designated Panzerkampfwagen VI Sd.Kfz 182, the King Tiger entered service in 1944. This tank carried the awesome tank-killing 88mm main gun and had four-inch armor at its thickest. The system was crewed by five personnel and two machine guns were added for self-defense. The King Tiger’s ability to destroy enemy tanks at extreme ranges yet remain impervious to those same tanks made it more than a match for any Allied tank. The sight of a King Tiger on the battlefield was terrifying and did great morale damage to Allied forces.

Dragon’s 1:35 scale King Tiger tanks are constructed almost entirely of diecast plastic, which helps to highlight even the smallest details such as the delicately rendered coat of Zimmerit on the turret and hull. Each releases features photo-etched metal engine screens on the rear of the hull and a movable machine gun up front. The turret has opening hatches and a pivoting main gun with detailed muzzle break, and can be removed for viewing of the cannon’s breech system located inside. The series includes the distinctively streamlined early shaped “Porsche” turret and the shell-deflecting late production “Henschel” turret design.

Dragon Models 1:35 Armor (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/armor/dragon-armor/35)

The Dragon Models "1:35 Dragon Armor" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor diecast tanks require no gluing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box. Made from diecast plastic components, the die cast tanks in the Dragon Armour series are 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.

Dragon Models "1:35 Dragon Armor" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast plastic construction.
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Selected opening hatches.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Meet the monster here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-61017


Our second pick is even larger, checking in at 12.75" in length and 3.5" of width. Offered for just $49.99, it is the 1:35 scale Dragon Models Armor 61013 Morser Karl--German Army, "Thor", Eastern Front, 1944, Firing Configuration.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/DM-61013_01_lrg.jpg

One of the most impressive artillery pieces ever produced must surely be the Gerät 040 series of self-propelled heavy siege mortars fielded by Germany in WWII. Weighing in at approximately 124 tons and with a length of 11.137m, these six massive war machines featured a 60cm barrel that could hurl a 2-ton shell a distance of 6.8km. To increase the weapon’s extremely short range, a 54cm gun barrel was subsequently manufactured and fitted to three of the Mörser vehicles. Now designated Gerät 041, the longer 7.1m barrel of the weapon increased the range to 10.4km.

One of these 54cm siege mortars has been meticulously recreated in miniature by Dragon Armor. The 1/35 scale vehicle depicted in this release is named “Thor”, which was the fourth vehicle to be produced. Serving with the 2nd Batterie of the 833rd schwere Artillerie Abteilung on the Eastern Front, “Thor” was eventually captured by the Soviets near the war’s end. Fully assembled and pre-painted, “Thor” constitutes an impressive model thanks to its sheer size and bulk. This Dragon Armor item is full of intricate detail, and it is presented in firing mode with the chassis lowered. The three-color camouflage scheme is particularly well done, lending the model a commanding presence. As a special bonus, a huge shell is included. This “god of thunder” bespeaks massive destructive power, and it’s ready for immediate display on any shelf big enough to take it!

Morser Karl (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_TNK_MORSERKARL)

Seven Morser Karl self-propelled siege howitzers were designed and built by Rheinmetall from November 1940 to August 1941. Due to General Karl Becker's leadership in the development of this gun, his men named the weapon after him. The 12-cylinder Daimler-Benz power plant provided a maximum speed of 6.2 miles per hour. The muzzle velocity was measured at 6,950 meters per ton and the entire gun was mounted to a thick massive baseplate to absorb the tremendous recoil. Only six of these hefty guns were ever produced and all saw action across the war's many fronts. Despite its size and available firepower, the Karl had not been decisive in any single engagement and the value of such a massive weapon was highly questionable.



Dragon Models 1:35 Armor (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/armor/dragon-armor/35)
The Dragon Models "1:35 Dragon Armor" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor diecast tanks require no gluing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box. Made from diecast plastic components, the die cast tanks in the Dragon Armour series are 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.






Dragon Models "1:35 Dragon Armor" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast plastic construction.
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Selected opening hatches.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Couple your engine to this:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-61013


Our first flying pick of the year is a 1:48 scale Franklin Mint He 111 Heinkel StG 3 North Africa (FM11E199) from Squadron for only $57.75.

http://www.squadron.com/images/large/FM11E199.jpg

Heinkel He 111 Luftwaffe StG 3, North Africa, 1941. Heinkel He 111 Designed ostensibly as an airliner, the He111 was first flown as a military bomber version in 1936. Length: 13.5" Width: 18.5".

She's looking for targets here:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=FM11E199


OB's has our final selection of this first week. Offered for $49.95 is the Hobby Master HA 7202 Grumman F9F-2P Panther VC-61 PP/154 USN "Look" in 1:48 scale.

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/uploads/ha7202.jpg

She's here, looking for your carrier deck:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/Qstore.cgi?CMD=011&PROD=1222827551&BACK=A0003A1

[KG_Jag]

Hope you're keeping warm for the past few days. It's often been colder in Austin than in Reno--even before Colt was knocked out in the first offensive series of the championship game.

Our armor champions this week are aimed at those of you who like the 1:72 scale and are on a tight budget. First up from Dragon by way of Troy's Toys for your $9.99 is the T-34/76 Mod. 1940--1st Moscow Motorized Rifle Division, July 1941 (60149).

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=60149&image=0

Aim your doorknockers here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=60149


Hobby Master and JT's give us our next 1:72 scale AFV, if you have the $14.99 and act quickly. It's the Cromwell Mk IV Tank West Europe (HG3104).

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_cromwell_3104.jpg

• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2007

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.



About the British Cromwell/Centaur Tank:

The Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Cromwell (A27M), named after the English Civil War leader Oliver Cromwell, was one of the most successful series of cruiser tanks fielded by Britain in World War II. It was the first tank in the British arsenal to combine a dual-purpose gun, high speed, and reasonable armor. Late in the war, it was the most common British design in use, replacing the Sherman tank for some units. Its design formed the basis of the formidable Comet.

The Cromwell was the fastest British tank to serve in World War II with a top (ungoverned) speed of 40 mph or 64 km/h (the US produced M18 Hellcat tank destroyer could reach 60 mph or 96 km/h on roads). Unfortunately, this speed proved too much for even the Christie suspension and the engine was governed to give a top speed of 32 mph or 51 km/h, which was still fast for its time. Thanks to its Christie parentage, the Cromwell was very agile on the battlefield. The dual purpose 75 mm main gun fired the same ammunition as the US 75 mm gun and therefore it had around the same HE and armor-piercing capabilities as the 75 mm equipped Sherman tank. The Cromwell's armor ranged from 8 mm to 76 mm thick overall but the maximum thickness was later increased to 102 mm with appliqué armor plates which were welded on. This armor compared well with that of the Sherman although the Cromwell did not share the Sherman’s sloped glacis plate. The Cromwell crews in North-West Europe succeeded in the Cromwell with superior speed, maneuverability and reliability outflanking the heavier and more sluggish German tanks. However, the Cromwell was still not a match for the best German armor and British tank design would go through another stage; the Comet tank, before going ahead in the tank development race with the Centurion tank.

About This Particular Cromwell Mk.IV Tank Depicted by this Diecast Armor Model:

Considered too lightly armored by many, the agile Cromwell was the fastest British tank of World War II. In 1943, the A27M model with the Meteor engine entered service and became part of the 22nd Armoured Brigade arsenal. In 1944–45, the Cromwell became the most numerous British tank and in many units replaced the Sherman. There were 341 Cromwell Mk. VI’s produced and these were armed with a 95mm Howitzer and used for close support. These tanks along with others saw heavy action in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.


Get it here:


http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-cromwell-tank-west-europe-hg3104-p-189.html


If you also like 1:72 aircraft, take a look at the U.S. F-4J Phantom II - Blue Angels, also by Hobby Master. Wartoyz has it for $32.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/ha1903-f4j-phantom-blue-angels-450.jpg

The U.S. F4 Phantom first entered service in 1960 as a fleet defense fighter for the U.S. Navy, and a few years later it entered service with the U.S. Air Force as a fighter-bomber. Over five thousand Phantom IIs were produced during its production run, and the aircraft served with the U.S Military as well as many of its allies. The F-4 Phantom II was also the only aircraft used by both the USAF Thunderbirds and the USN Blue Angels. The Blue Angels started using the F-4J Phantom II in 1969.

This die-cast 1:72 scale U.S. F-4J Phantom is part of the Air Power Series from Hobby Master. This Limited Edition of the F-4J Falcon depicts the 'Blue Angels' version of the aircraft.

This highly-detailed die-cast U.S. F-4D Phantom II is approximately 10 inches long and has a wingspan of approximately 7 inches. It has many detailed features, including canopies that open, an interchangeable undercarriage, detachable fuel tanks, and two pilot figures.

The show starts here:


http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/HOLIDAY/HM-HA1903


Our last selection this week is an Armour 1:48 scale Ju 52-3m G4E Luftwaffe BALKAN CAMP Feldzug Luftwaffe Stab IV/KGZV1 from 3000Toys for $49.99.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/ARMOUR/B11C993.jpg

Pick up your ticket to Greece here:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=ARMOURB11C993

[KG_Jag]

Our first pick this week is a 1:35 scale Dragon (DRR61028) Tiger I Initial Production from Great Models for just $38.65.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61028.JPG

Features: - Open window display packaging - Highly popular and collectible item - True to 1/35 scale - Fully accurate mold - Fully assembled - Includes protective display case.

Find it wintering here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61028


Our second selection is a great deal on a Corgi 1:50 scale M4 Sherman Tank--French Army, France, 1944. Spirit of '76 has it for $11.90.

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/CC51005.jpg

You can find it about mid way down this page:

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/index.htm


We'll stick with Corgi for our first air pick this week. From Historic Aviation, it is a 1:72 scale P-40E Warhawk--Capt. Robert H. Vaught, 49th FG, "Bob's Robin". The price is just $14.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091815&size=large

Replicating the model flown by ace Cpt. Robert Vaught, who achieved his first three victories in this P-40, this 1/72 scale, limited edition, die cast model features engraved panel lines; a detailed cockpit with a pilot figure; a rotating propeller; optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires; his authentic 49th Fighter Group markings from Darwin, Australia, in 1942; a display stand and more. 6" wingspan.

Get one here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12230&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF%20Fighters


Our final selection of the week is also in the 1:72 scale Gemini Aces Luftwaffe BF109F-4 Wolfdieter Huy (GA3004). The Airplane Shop has it for $18.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/ga3004.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=12)

Pick one up here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=12

[KG_Jag]

This week we feature two Dragon 1:35 scale World War II German AFV's. The first is the Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant sPzJgAbt 653, Russia/Poland 1944 from DiecastAirplane for $47.95.

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/Shared/images/Dragon_Armor/DRR61005.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

Item Number: DRR61005


Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant sPzJgAbt 653, Russia/Poland 1944

When first introduced onto the Eastern Front at the Battle of Kursk in 1943, the Elefant, like the animal it was named after, became bit of an endangered species! It was powerful but ponderous, able to kill tanks from long ranges, but unable to defend against infantry at close ranges. Some of its defensive shortcomings were later rectified by the addition of a bow machine gun, while its 8.8cm PaK43/2 L/71 gun remained as lethal as ever. Dragon Armor has released a new 1/35 scale Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant, which is finished in the colors and markings of a vehicle serving with PzJgAbt 653, one of the original units that fielded this new type of tank destroyer at Kursk. The three-color camouflage scheme is highly attractive, with mottled green and brown patches over a yellow base.
Main Features:
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully assembled
- Accurate tracks with appropriate level of sag
- Barrel can elevate and lower.
- Includes a display base

As with the previous limited edition Elefant, this is a superb collectors piece. The unblemished paint scheme is realistically weathered to represent an Elefant fighting on the Eastern Front in 1944. The lifelike tracks have just the right degree of sag, while the hull machine gun is movable. The long barrel (or should we say trunk?) of the Elefant also elevates and depresses. This fully assembled model bears a host of remarkable features, and with such a fine specimen as this, the survival of the Elefant species is assured!

The trail head for the tusk is here:

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/p/5975-Sd-Kfz-184-Elefant-sPzJgAbt-653-Russia-Poland-1944-1-35-.html


Our second selection is the Panther G Late Production 1.Pz.Rgt.26 "Großdeutschland" France 1944 (#61020) from J-P Hobbies for $49.95.

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/prodimages/dml_61020.jpg

Check the second product on the second line down here:

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/products.asp?cat=163


Our aircraft selections this week start with the 1:72 scale Witty Sky Guardians Sea Fury FB.11 807 SQ HMS Theseus 1951 from Drop Zone for $15.95.

http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72015-001-2.jpg

Return to the Korean War era here:

http://www.thedzd.com/product-p/wtw72015-001.htm


Our final pick for the week is another 1:72 scale Witty bird, but this one is jet powered. From Monkey Depot at $21.95, it is the SU-27 Russian Test Pilot plane.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WY0060-2.jpg

Materials: Die Cast Metal w/Plastic Details.

Description: Gear fixed in the down position.

Test it yourself here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Witty_Wings_SU_27_Russian_Test_Pilot_p/wy0060.htm

Feb. 7, 2010 Update: The price of this item has been lowered to just $14.99!

[KG_Jag]

This week we feature 3 armor selections and all are from the 1:48 scale Tamiya Masterwork or if you prefer, Military Miniature Collection.

First up is the new TAM26544 Mtl.SPW Sd.Kfz 251/1 - Finished Model Ausf. D, which appears to have limited distribution, coupled with rapid sales of the available inventory. Great Models has it for $65.95.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Tamiya/TAM26544.JPG

Finished model of the Mtl.SPW. Sd.Kfz. 251/1 Ausf.D. Decals and high quality pad printed markings have a life-like weathered appearance. This model features different markings to that of the assembly kit version.

Get one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=TAM26544


Second on the list is the TA26501 1/48 scale German Tiger I Early Prod (Finished) from Micro Macro Mundo for $48.46.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26501.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26501)

Here's your link to the litter box:

http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26501


Our third armor pick is the Stug III Ausf B (TAM26503) from Hobby Link Japan for 4,200 Yen or about $46.74.

http://static.hlj.com/_.gif
http://static.hlj.com/_.gif
http://static.hlj.com/images/tam/tam26503.jpg

Tamiya has finally released a finished model of one of their 1/48 scale Military Miniatures! The Stug III Ausf B is painted in German Gray camouflage. Markings are of the #33 vehicle of the 203rd. Assault Gun Battalion in Russia 1941. Markings are painted, moderately dry brushed and weathered; there's room left for skillful modelers to add their own weathering. Length = 115mm. Width = 65mm.

Find this early war assault gun here:

https://secure.hlj.com/product/TAM26503


Our first aircraft selection represents what is likely to be the end of closeout prices on the great discontinued line of Carousel 1 warbirds in 1:48 scale. DiecastAirplane still has some of the line in stock, including the FW-190D-11 - Karl-Heinz Hofmann for $34.95--and maybe 10% less if you have their coupon code.

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/shared/images/Carousel/CRSL7142.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

Grab one here while you still can:

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/p/1468-FW-190D-11-Karl-Heinz-Hofmann-1-48-.html


Our final selection this week a Hobby Master 1:72 scale "County of London," No. 601 Sqn. P-39 Air Cobra Duxford, October, 1941 for $24.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HA1703.JPG

It's here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=HobbyMaster&ItemNo=HA1703#item

[KG_Jag]

The Saints have won the Super Bowl so it's time for some early diecast Mardi Gras!

First up is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage Halftrack from Trinkets to Treasures for $31.95.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/81203.jpg


Unimax Forces of Valor bring amazing military vehicles to life! This is a highly detailed 1:32 scale replica of the U.S. M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage. Forces of Valor model number 81203. The model measures approximately 7 1/2 inches long.

The half-track operation of the M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage was a specific necessity in navigating the rough terrain of the Ardennes Forest. Equipped with four .50 caliber machine guns and an armor reinforced turret, the M16 was primarily used against German ground troops. Forces of Valor models are second to none in detail and realism! These true to life die-cast vehicles feature precision engineering. Forces of Valor models have have working treads and suspension, turrets, elevating cannons, opening hatches and removable accessories. Most Forces of Valor vehicles include scale model figures. They come fully painted, detailed and assembled.

Aim all four barrels here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/tanks-vehicles_military_half-tracks_forces-of-valor-m16-multiple-gun-motor-carriage-halftrack.html


Our second armor pick is the DRAGON 60349 - 1/72 scale - AAV7A1 MK-154 MICLIC (MINE CLEARANCE LINE CHARGE) from Mission Models for $14.99.

http://www.missionmodels.com/files/t_127111.jpg

Features: Open window display packaging; Highly popular and collectible item; True to 1/72 scale; Fully accurate mold; Fully assembled; Historically accurate markings and insignia; and Includes protective display case.

Dragon Armor has previously released a 1/72 AAVP7A1, but the newest member in the family offers something extra. The new collectors’ item includes an accurately depicted MK-154 MICLIC (Mine Clearance Line Charge) system mounted atop the AAV. Firing up to three rocket-projected explosive line charges into a minefield, the MK-154 system can produce a safe lane up to 16m wide and 100m long. This self-contained electric and hydraulic mine-clearing equipment is ideal for beach assaults, and was deployed in OIF during the initial invasion. This particular model lacks nothing! It is finished in a three-color NATO camouflage scheme. All the relevant detail of the real AAV7A1 is glorious portrayed. This unique model represents an unusual vehicle in the USMC inventory, one that is sure to please fans of modern armored equipment.

Walk carefully to this location:

http://www.missionmodels.com/product.php?productid=127111&cat=503&page=3


Our first flying selection is from Hobby Master by way of Aiken's. It is the F-104G STARFIGHTER - "MOUNT OLYMPUS" GREECE AIR FORCE in 1:72 scale for $19.95.

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/hobby%20master/HA1003-F104-Greece-right-st.jpg

Head to the Med here:

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/hobby%20master/hm-ha1003.htm


Our final selection this week is the 1:32 scale 21ST Century Macchi C205 Veltro JG77 Luftwaffe from the Airplane Shop for $14.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cn13309s1.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=21STCE&id=65)

Your second med trip begins here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=21STCE&id=65

[KG_Jag]

We hope that everyone had a great Valentine's Day and did not make the mistake of giving your gal diecast instead of flowers and candy.

The last year and a half or so have been lean times for many producers and sellers of military diecast. Too many have gone out of business or at least greatly reduced inventory to cope with our not so robust economy. Among those companies in this category is Spirit of '76, which appears to liquidating all of its remaining stock at 50% off its sale prices and shipping is free. Still available are two versions of the 1:50 scale Churchill Tank for just $10.00 a piece. The first is the British Army, Italy, 1944 (CC60103).

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/cc60103.jpg

Second is the Soviet Army, 1943, Lease-Lend, Mk IV (CC60102).

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/CC60102.jpg

See them at the top of this page--and see the home page of the site for the correct 50% (not 30%) discount and free shipping information:

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/index.htm


Our next armor pick is for those of you who have continued to do well in tough times. From The Collectors Showcase by way of Hobby Bunker, we feature the 1:30 scale Sturmgeschutz 10th SS Market Garden with interior, removable roof and barrel for $99.99.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/CS00302_POP1.jpg

Get one here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=17733


We have three pick option to open our air selections this week. Each is a 1:48 scale Armour/Franklin Mint He 111 priced by Randy's Die Cast at $69.00. The first of these has has the over-sized Recognition Crosses and was flown in Poland, September Campaign, 1939.

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/e200.jpg

The second option is from the Battle of Britain in 1941.

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/e198.jpg

Third is North Africa, 1941--Derma, Libya.

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/e199.jpg

See them all at the top of this page:

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/miscmilww2b.htm


Our final selection this week is a 1:72 Corgi P-38J "Pat III" Oliver Taylor - Italy from Joe Pilot for $33.00.

http://joepilot.com/mmJOEPILOT/Images/480x480/AA36607.jpg


Lockheed P-38 J Lightning - 'Pat III', Col. Oliver B. Taylor, CO of the 14th Fighter Group, Triolo, Italy, July 1944. Col. Taylor kept his P-38J with the 49th FS during his time as CO of the 14th FG. There is no record that he scored any victories in this particular fighter. Taylor was struck down with polio and transferred out of the group on July 17. His command was transferred to Col. Daniel Campbell.

1:72 scale. Wingspan: 8.5". Includes stand Item Number: AA36607

Yours awaits here:

http://joepilot.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=AA36607&eq=&Tp=

[KG_Jag]

It was a black week in Austin. A solo terrorist flew his plane into a building, after attempting to blow his own home--which he managed to set on fire. The day after the attack, I drove by the building. It was a miracle that "only" one innocent person was killed and two seriously injured.

Well--on to our picks. The first honors government employees of the past who have laid their lives on the line to preserve our lives and freedom. From Oryon in the 1:35 scale, they are World War II US Army Rangers, 2nd Battalion from Michigan Toy Soldiers for $19.99.

http://www.michtoy.com/michtoy/OYN2002.jpg

They're still on duty here:

http://www.michtoy.com/michtoy_search_details.php?Numbers=OYN-2002


Our first armor pick is a Corgi 1:50 scale M113 ACAV, D Co., 1st Sq., 11th Armored Cavalry "Draft Dodger" US Army, Vietnam. The Toy Headquarters has it for $22.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG51104_238_Corgi_M113.jpg

Grab your draft card and report here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=24&products_id=2384&osCsid=556c4e95af68a602c8d0d9324a99c0b5


Our first flying pick is from the Blammo Sale at the Monkey Depot. It's not cheap at $109.99, but you'll be hard pressed to find the Century Wings SR-71B Blackbird Trainer USAF in 1:72 scale at a better price.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CW0030-2.jpg

SR-71A Blackbird USAF 9th SRW, 61-7956 TYPE-B Trainer 1968
LIMITED EDITION OF 1500 PIECES

Description: One of the most distinctive planes in US history, the SR-71 was an advanced, long range, strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed by the famous Lockheed Skunk Works. First put into service in 1964, 32 aircraft were produced and it remained in service in through 1998. It was capable of speeds exceeding Mach 3 and used this capability as its chief defense. With a ceiling of 80,000 feet, the crew had to wear specially designed suits that were close to those used by NASA for space missions. There were only two trainer aircraft produced easily identified by the raised instructor cockpit.

The Blackbird has been elusive in high quality die cast models. Century Wings has stepped to the plate and delivered with their outstanding ready to display model with the high quality and attention to detail that they have become known for. This die cast monster is almost 18 inches long and captures this unique plane down to the smallest detail. As with all Century Wings, this is a limited edition. The first SR-71 release sold out in record time and this is sure to do the same.

-Detailed cockpit
-Real metal with plastic details
-Pilot figures included
-In flight display stand included
-Optional extended/retracted landing gear
-Ultra detailed panel lines
-Pad printed graphics (superior to decals)
-Full detail underside with concealed screw heads
-Detachable armament

Please file and follow your flight plan to here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Century_Wings_SR_71B_Blackbird_Trainer_USAF_1_72_p/cw0030.htm


Our final selection this week is a 1:48 scale Carousel 1 Messerschmitt Bf 109E Luftwaffe 8./JG 27, "Black 8", Werner Schroer, Libya, August 1941 from Internet Hobbies. This getting difficult to find at a good price bird is priced at just $30.98.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/internethobbies_2090_354508246 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/internethobbies_2090_354424693)

Werner Schroer was one of the few German aces to achieve more than 100 victories against the Western Allies, yet he is probably best known as the pilot of "Black 8" in a much-published German color publicity photo. Schroer joined Jagdgeschwader 27 in August 1940 and flew with them in the Battle of Britain. While in France, JG 27 acquired their famous "Leopard over Africa" emblem, which reflected a determination to re-take the former colonial territories Germany lost in the First World War. When Hitler decided to send General Rommel and the Afrika Corps join Italy’s North African campaign against British Egypt, JG 27 was the fighter unit selected to support them. They landed at the Ainel-Gazla airfield in Libya on 18 April 1941. The next day JG 27 shot down four British Hurricanes, one of which was Lieutenant Schroer’s first kill. In the next few days Schroer added three more victories. In late April several JG 27 109s, including Schroer’s, were cleaned and photographed for home front consumption. White wall tires shown on several 109s were not a decoration, but an attempt to protect rubber tires from desert heat. On 30 August 1941. Schroer and his wingman attacked RAF Tomahawks over Tobruk, setting one on fire and claiming a victory. Unfortunately for the Axis powers, Schroer’s victim, Australian Clive Caldwell, although wounded and nursing a crippled aircraft, did not crash. Caldwell not only limped back to base, he shot down a 109 on the way, and ultimately was credited with 20 victories in the North African fighting. Schroer had scored 11 when he was appointed Staffelkapitane of 8./JG 27 in June 1942, then tallied another 11 victories in two weeks. Schroer’s 61 victories in North Africa with JG 27 made him the second leading ace of the Mediterranean Theater, after Hans Joachim Marseilles. After rising to command II./JG 27 in April 1943, Schroer was sent to lead III./JG 54 in March 1944. In July 1944 he was taken out of a combat role to lead the Unit Commander’s School. Schroer was named Kommodore of JG 3 ‘Udet’ in February 1945. His final score of 114 included 102 RAF and USAAF opponents (including 26 American four-engine bombers) and 12 Russians in only 197 missions. Werner Schroer died in 1985.

The few remaining in stock are circling here:

http://www.internethobbies.com/cro-7102-tws.html

[KG_Jag]

I forgot to post our second armor pick this week. It is Forces of Valor US M2A2 Bradley 1:32 scale (#16563) from The Toy Federation for just $29.95.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/images/t_16563.jpg

Please note that all forces of valor which we sell are the “Enthusiast� grade, not the basic “action� grade available at mass market stores.

This powerhouse, also known as the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, was developed to be a highly mobile armed personal carrier that could keep pace with the awesome General Dynamics Land Systems M1A1 Abrams battle tank. During Operation Desert Storm, the M2 demonstrated the high power of mobility, intense firepower, and crew protection capabilities.

External reactive armor plates were added to the front and sides to increase crew survivability during heavy combat conditions. The awesome 600 HP turbo charged diesel deftly maintained superior mobility even with the increased weight in all the battlefield scenarios of the Gulf War.

They say that there's at least one left here:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=16563&cat=317&page=1

[KG_Jag]

We start this week with international vendor Hobby Link Japan and the 1/35 Scale MWC Tiger I Initial Production 501st H.T.B. 1942 Code: TAM21801 Series: Masterwork Collection for 9,800 yen or about $109.92.

http://static.hlj.com/images/tam/tam21801.jpg

Head east here:

http://www.hlj.com/product/TAM21801


For those of you who might need something a bit more modest in price to fit the budget, we feature the Schuco 1:43 scale German SDKFZ 231 8-wheeled Recon armored car from the Military Diecast Shop for $17.50.

http://www.car43.ch/Edison852121.jpg

This the is Schuco 1/43 scale diecast model with plastic parts of the WWII German 8 wheeled recon vehicle. It had a 20mm KwK30 L/55 cannon and a secondary 7.92mm MG35 machine gun. It weighed 8.3 and had a crew of four. Painted in tan/green/auburn camo. Nicely detailed right down to the front mounted spare tire. Come in a clear display box with descriptive base.

Recon this territory:

http://crgrace.com/zen-cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3&products_id=4


Another good pick for the budget minded is the IXO 1:144 scale Petlyakov Pe-8--especially when you can get it from Military Issue for just $11.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0095215&size=large

Replicating a Petlyakov Pe-8 heavy bomber - the only four-engine bomber built by the Soviet Union during World War II - this 1/144 scale die cast metal and plastic model features textured surfaces, glazed windows, rotating propellers, extended landing gear, authentic markings, and more. 10½" wingspan; includes a display stand.

Your non-stop flight to the Eastern Front leaves from here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10663&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Allied Bombers


Our final selection this week is the now hard to find Corgi 1:72 scale Vickers Wellington Mk.VIII, RAF, Coastal Command – Corgi AA34805. Showcase Toys has it for $69.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2091_6693841

Corgi Limited Edition Diecast Model

Vickers Wellington Mk.VIII – HX379:WN-A, No. 172 Squadron (Coastal Command), RAF, 1942

Features working Leigh Light

1:72 scale. Length: 10.25�. Wingspan: 14.2�

Coastal Command was an organization within the Royal Air Force tasked with protecting the United Kingdom from Naval threats. More specifically it was founded with the idea of directly countering German U-boats by air. It was formed just prior to WWII in 1936, and merged into the new RAF Strike Command in 1968.

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate markings and optional extended or retracted landing gear.

Shine your light here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa34805-vickers-wellington-raf.html

[KG_Jag]

For our fist selections in March, it is appropriate to start with the German Panzergrenadiers Armored Division “Lehr� from Oryon in 1:35 scale from Michigan Toy Soldiers for just $19.99.

http://www.michtoy.com/michtoy/OYN2001.jpg

Achtung--here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-OYN-2001-German_Panzergrenadiers_Armored_Division_“Lehr†�.html


Our ground pounders might also like the Corgi 1:43 scale M151 Jeep Recoilless Rifle US Army from Aviation-Models for just $19.95.

http://www.aviation-models.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/50104.jpg

M151 Mutt Utility Jeep Recoilless Rifle US Army
Scale 1/43 - 5.5" x 1.5"
Moving wheels.

Roll on to this location:

http://www.aviation-models.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AM&Product_Code=US50104&Category_Code=SIMV


Our final pick on the ground is from the pre-mature Bad Cat Spring Cleaning Sale. It is from the now defunct/bought out 21st Century 1:32 scale Panzer 38(t) for something less than $14.00, after you scratch for your varying coupon code at the site.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2097_15030440


1:32 scale plastic model tank. Prepainted and assembled, ready for display.



Features Include

Rotating turret
Rolling Tracks
Plastic Construction
Length: 6"
Width: 2½"
Scratch and sniff here:

http://www.badcattoys.com/pa3812199fco.html


Our first flying pick returns us to Michigan Toy Soldier for the 1:32 scale Hobby Master SBD Dauntless USN VB-2 USS Lexington, CV-2 Early 1941 for $118.99.

http://www.michtoy.com/michtoy/Picture_HMT-HA0201-1.jpg

The neutrality yellow won't last too long here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-HMT-HA0201-SBD_Dauntless_USN_VB_2_USS_Lexington_CV_2_Early_19 41.html


Our final selection this week is the 1:72 scale Witty Wings F/A-18 Super Hornet--VFA-14 Tophatters with stand from boomingisland for $25.99.

http://www.discountwar.com/images/boomingisland/diecast/wty-72007-5-4.jpg
http://www.discountwar.com/images/boomingisland/diecast/stand.jpg

Size: 10 1/4" length. 7 1/4" wingspan. Comes with a Metal Adjustable Stand
Produced under License from Boeing Management Company
F-18 & McDonnell Douglas are among the trademarks owned by Boeing.

Now the centerpiece of naval aviation, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Strike fighter is a flying fighter, attacker, reconnaissance, refueller and suppressor of enemy air defenses for America's US Navy aircraft carrier fleet for the foreseeable future.

The Super Hornet is operational with many fleet squadrons and has seen combat in operations over Iraq and Afghanistan. Two events were significant to pursue the Super Hornet namely the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War.

The F/A-18E/F brings a complete change of face to US Naval Aviation and is set to be a formidable force for many years in all roles required for peacekeeping in the world.

Our second tailhooker lands here:

http://www.boomingisland.com/p-1152-172-witty-wings-f-18-super-hornet-vfa-14-tophatters-diecast.aspx

[KG_Jag]

It's SxSW time in Austin. So sleep and diecast watching will be at a premium for this week!

We start this week with another great buy on some Oryon 1:35 soldiers. This time they are the "Kirovograd", Russia, Dec 1943 - January 1944 set from Internet Hobbies for $20.97.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/internethobbies_2094_318559507

The Soviet juggernaut got rolling in earnest during the Autumn of 1943 with the advance into the Germans' Orel salient. The diversion of the well-equipped Grossdeutschland Division from Belgorod to Karachev could not stop it, and a strategic decision was made to abandon Orel (retaken by the Red Army on August 5th, 1943) and fall back to the Hagen line in front of Bryansk. To the south, the Soviets blasted through Army Group South's Belgorod positions and headed for Kharkov once again. Though intense battles of movement throughout late July and into August 1943 saw the Tigers blunting Soviet tanks on one axis, they were soon outflanked on another line to the west as the Soviets advanced down the Psel, and Kharkov had to be evacuated for the final time on August 22nd.

This 4-piece figure set consists of two German parachutists from the 2nd Division "Ramke" and two Russian soldiers from the 67th Armored Division.

Assemble here before they run out of stock:

http://www.internethobbies.com/ory-3005-tws.html


Our first armor pick is from phase 2 of the Monkey Depot's Blammo Sale and will go great for the Oryon soldiers. Offered for $47.99, it is the Dragon Armor 1:35 scale Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant Poland 1944 (61026).

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0280-2.jpg

Grab one here before spring arrives:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Dragon_Armor_61026_1_35_Sd_Kfz_184_Elefant_p/da0280.htm


Our second AFV pick is the now difficult to find 1:32 scale 21st Century Cold Steel M4A3 Sherman with 75mm Gun and Stars from The Toy Federation for $21.95.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/files/t_19387.jpg

Find it here:


http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=19387&cat=358&page=1


Our first aircraft selection is from the very familiar Corgi by way of the even more familiar to all Amazon.com. It is the 1:72 scale P-40F flown by
Capt. John L Bradley, 59th FS/33rd FG, Tunisia 1943 on sale for $19.95.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/311XOIvPOcL._SS500_.jpg

Land one here:

http://www.amazon.com/Corgi-P-40F-Warhawk-AA35201/dp/B000QB4TA0/ref=sr_1_56?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1268001731&sr=1-56


Our final selection this week is Corgi 1:72 scale Junkers Ju52/3mg5e (Floatplane) AA36901 from Alsand's for $85.00.


http://www.alsandmdseco.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/webassets/AA36901.jpg (http://webhosting.web.com/imagelib/sitebuilder/misc/show_image.html?linkedwidth=actual&linkpath=http://www.alsandmdseco.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/webassets/AA36901.jpg&target=tlx_new&title=Junkers Ju52/3mg5e (Floatplane))

This 1/72nd scale die cast plane from Corgi is a replica of a WWII German Junkers Ju52/3mg5e (floatplane) used by the Luftwaffe (German Airforce) during Operation Weserubung, Norway 1940 (invasion of Norway). This helped the Germans to get troops in for the invasion. The plane is prepainted and assembled in accurate colors and scale for instant enjoyment.

Float over here to check it out:

http://www.alsandmdseco.com/catalog/i1091.html

[KG_Jag]

It's hard to believe that we still are having winter weather, but no bluebonnets this time of year in central Texas. However, maybe some of the deals this week will heat things up just a bit.

For our armor fans, we'll start with the Tamiya Masterwork Collection 1:35 scale T-55A Desert Version from Military Issue for $69.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901523&size=large

Replicating a Polish-built T-55A employed by Iraqi forces in the First Gulf War, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an aluminum gun barrel, an opening commander's hatch, an anti-aircraft heavy machine gun and a loader's hatch, rear-mounted fuel tanks, realistic metal tracks, a desert paint scheme, and more. 7¼" long; arrives ready to display.

Here's the sandbox:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=11435&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor


Our next pick is the difficult to find, especially at a good price, Corgi 1:43 scale M106 Mortar Track US Army. Buffalo Road Imposts has it for $33.00.


http://www.constructionscalemodels.com/pictures/COR51102_01.JPG


Get one here:

http://www.constructionscalemodels.com/productdetail.aspx?recid= 6563


Going skyward, both of selections are Dragon 1:72 scale planes. The first is the P-51D Mustang "Shark's Mouth" from Diecast Supermart for just $14.37.

http://www.diecastsupermart.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/shared/images/Dragon_Wings/DRW50040.jpg

P-51D Mustang "Shark's Mouth" 1:72 by Dragon Wings 72
Item Number: DRW50040


P-51D Mustang USAAF "Shark's Mouth" 12 FBS 18 FBG January 1951 Dragon Wings Warbirds - Maintaining strict standards to original aircraft specifications, working parts, accurate commercial markings and scale, Dragon Wings continues to hold a unique and respected position in the die cast model aircraft industry. We carry the diecast warbirds line of 1:72 scale fighter aircraft ranging from WWII classics to the cutting-edge of modern day.

Bite into one here:

http://www.diecastsupermart.com/store/p/2924-P-51D-Mustang-Shark-s-Mouth-1-72-.html


Our final feature item this week is the IJN A6M2 Zero Fighter Type 11 12th NAG--Petty Officer (Flight) First Class SABURO SAKAI, China 1941. Big Boys War Toys has it for $16.76.

http://www.bigboyswartoys.com/Media/Product/DRW50011.jpg

LENGTH: ABOUT 5 1/2"
WINGSPAN: ABOUT 6"

Petty Officer 1st Class Saburo Sakai is the most famous Japanese pilot and was one of the few high scorers to survive the war. He flew 200 missions in the Pacific theater during World War 2, and his total of 64 victories puts him in fourth place in the WWII IJN Ace list.

While watching "The Pacific" on HBO, buy one here:

http://www.bigboyswartoys.com/cgi-bin/prod_page.pl?item=DRW50011

[KG_Jag]

Spring has arrived; March is about to depart; and the blue bonnets and other wild flowers have finally made their debut in central Texas. We'll begin the celebration my featuring three 1:35 Tamiya Masterwork German World War II AFV's at very difficult to beat prices--all from Military Issue.

We'll start with the lowest priced of the three. At $78.95, it's the Panzer IV Ausf. H.


http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901525&size=large
Replicating the most common German tank of World War II, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an opening commander's hatch, an aluminum 7.5 cm KwK 40 gun barrel, an anti-aircraft machine gun, turret and side armor, detailed metal tracks, authentic 2nd Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

2nd Panzer assemble here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10583&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor


For only a buck more at $79.95, our second pick is the Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. G.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M800791&size=large

Hand assembled and painted by expert modelers, this fully assembled 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model of a World War II Sturmgeschütz III Ausf.G features an aluminum gun barrel with a muzzle brake, optional-position hatches, photo-etched engine grilles, a machine gun shield, removable side skirts, realistic metal tracks, plenty of tools and equipment, a camouflage scheme and authentic 237th Sturmgeschütz Brigade markings, and more. Measures approximately 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

Join the brigade here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=12410&product=Kits&category=land&subcategory=Armor


We've saved the baddest boy for last. Priced at $84.95, it's the Panther Ausf. G Late Version.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901529&size=large

Replicating the most widely produced and final variant of the deadly Panther, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an aluminum gun barrel with a detailed muzzle brake, an anti-aircraft machine gun, side armor, photo-etched engine grille parts, realistic metal tracks, authentic 116th Panzer Division markings, and more. 9¾" long; arrives ready to display.

The Greyhound Division won't wait long here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=11436&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor


Continuing with our World War II Axis theme, but this time going to the air, we feature the Dragon 1:72 scale Me109G-2 Trop de la 385 Squadriglia, 150 Gruppo Caccia Terrestre (Italian AF). The Toy Federation has one for your hanger, if you have the $12.95.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/images/t_17110.jpg

During World War II, the Bf 109 (me 109) was the backbone of the Luftwaffe fighter force, serving on all fronts and also in the air forces of its European allies. Even though the superior Fw 190 began to replace the Bf 109 in some units as early as the summer of 1941, production of the Bf 109 actually rose until the closing months of the war and it remained the most numerous Luftwaffe fighter. By war's end, Germany had built over 30,000 Bf 109's. Production of the Bf 109 continued on after the war in Czechoslovakia until 1949 and in Spain until 1958. It remains to this day the most produced fighter in history.

Get one here before they surrender:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=17110&cat=320&page=2


We go modern with our final selection from Beck's. It's the Corgi 1:144 scale Avro Vulcan K.2 Tanker, No. 50 Sq., RAF Waddington, 1982 [AA31203] priced at $41.95.

https://www.bacdiecast.com/images/products/AA31203_lg.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:;)

Buy all 7.5" of her wingspan here:

https://www.bacdiecast.com/product_info.php?cPath=28_29_44&products_id=54

[KG_Jag]

Happy Easter!

I'll do my best not to lay an egg with any of the picks for this week. So let's begin the Tamiya Masterwork 1:35 scale Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) Type 90 from Tamiya itself for $90.00.
http://static.hlj.com/_.gif
http://www.tamiya.com/english/products/masterwork/21020_thmb.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:openPopImg('21020.jpg','PHOTO', '550', '344'))
One of the most powerful modern day tanks, the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) Type 90 makes its way to the Masterwork Collection. Joining the M1A2 Abrams and Leopard 2 A6, the Type 90 is an indispensable addition to any modern tank collection.

About the JGSDF Type 90:

The third main tank for the JGSDF, the Type 90 entered service in August 1990. Packed with the latest hi-tech equipment, including 120mm smoothbore main gun, laser range finder, gun stabilizer, infrared night viewer, automatic cannon loading system and 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, the Type 90 is considered one of the most highly sophisticated modern day tanks in the world. Powered by a Mitsubishi V10 cylinder 1,500hp diesel engine and weighing in at just 50 tons, the Type 90 has a good power-to-weight ratio, reaching a top speed of 70km/h. A sophisticated hydraulic suspension system also ensures excellent maneuverability no matter the terrain.


About the Model

Fully assembled 1/35 scale JGSDF Type 90 tank pre-painted with all markings pre-applied.
Movable parts include wind sensor, commander's hatch and gunner�s hatch.
Display quality enhanced by turned aluminum gun barrel and photo etched parts for turret basket, and light and sight covers.
Commander and gunner's periscope includes transparent parts for realistic finish.
Inner half of road wheels made from metal for extra weight.
Accessories include machine gun and full commander and gunner figures.
Markings for 2nd Co. of the Fuji School Brigade Tank School Unit
Here's the source:

http://www.tamiyausa.com/product/item.php?product-id=21020


For our second chocolate bunny this week, we'll stay with Tamiya, but slip down to the 1:48 scale for the Cromwell Mk. IV. ToyEast has it for $34.02.

http://toyeast.ideoconcepts.com/productimage/atamiya26521a.jpg

It's hopping down this tank trail:

http://www.toyeast.com/v3/pdtdetail.asp?pdt_id=ATAMIYA26521


Our first flying chick this week is the Corgi 1:72 scale DH VAMPIRE FB.9 - NO.28 SQUADRON, RAF FAR EAST AIR FORCE, KAI TAK, HONG KONG, LATE 1955 from Diecast Direct for just $23.97.


They won't let me show you a picture, but you can see it here--if you act quickly:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=C37302


Our final pick from the bunny is also a Corgi 1:72 UK jet. This is the Lightning MK6 from Bad Cat for $39.00.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2097_22661025 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2097_22584206)

1:72 scale diecast model airplane from the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA32311. English Electric Lightning F.Mk 6 RAF No.5 Sqn, Andy Williams, RAF Binbrook, England, 1987.

Length 9.25"
Wingspan 5.75"

Features:
Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets and control surfaces.

BAC Lightning F.6 XR770 joined the RAF on 26th September 1966, with No.74 Sqn at Leuchars, Fyfe, followed by service with Nos.23 Sqn and 56 Sqn. It was then transferred to Binbrook, Lincs in 1980 and flew with No.5 Sqn as the CO's aircraft coded 'A'. Recoded 'AA' in 1987, XR770 was the personal aircraft of the CO, Wing Commander Andy Williams who had the fin painted scarlet initially, but as the end of Lightning operations approached, the entire length of the spine and the wing leading edges were also painted scarlet. In June 2008, XR770 was transferred to Waddington for further restoration and display by 5.Sqn, which is there current base operating the Sentinel R.1.

The distinctive shape and unique 1950's Cold War styling of this 1:72 scale EE Lighting single-seat series has made it one of Corgi’s most sought after diecast models. This model is large and heavy and is constructed using only the minimal amount of plastic. The series includes early variants with subtle differences, such as a fueling probe and clipped tail fin. Later variants have a completely different wing, larger ventral fuel tank with an integrated twin cannon pack and simulated stainless-steel covering located forward. The canopy can be configured in the open or closed position and a separate photo-etched metal cockpit ladder is included with most releases.

Here's the Easter egg treasure map:

http://www.badcattoys.com/limk61coaa.html

[KG_Jag]

To help make this week a little less taxing, we'll start with two 1:48 scale tanks from the smaller side of the Tamiya Masterwork collection. The first is a M4 SHERMAN EARLY PRODUCTION C Co. 756TH TANK BN.5TH ARMY from HW Japan for 3,360 Yen or about $37.33.

http://www.hwjapan.com/g_library2/tam/tam26512b.jpg http://www.hwjapan.com/g_library2/tam/tam26512c.jpg http://www.hwjapan.com/g_library2/tam/tam26512d.jpg http://www.hwjapan.com/g_library2/tam/tam26512e.jpg

Here's the road to the east:

http://www.hwjapan.com/sh/TAM26512.aspx


Next up is the Soviet KV-1 directly from Tamiya for $43.50.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26526.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26526)

This way to heavy metal (and plastic):

http://www.tamiyausa.com/product/item.php?product-id=26526


For this week in the air, we feature two 1:32 scale Corgi Bf 109G's which are fading from the market.

The first is from 3000Toys for $67.95. It is the Messerschmitt Bf109G-2 Yellow 12, Oberleutnant Heinrich Ehrle, Staffelkapitan 6./JG5, Petsamo, Finland 1943.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/AA34906.jpg

This particular aircraft is remarkable for the livery. To provide camouflage more suited to the terrain over which it was operating, Ehrler's early Gustav had been given a coat of washable paint (including the fuselage cross), to which large irregular patches of dark green had been added.

Get one of the last few in stock here:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGIAA34906


Our final pick of income tax filing week is the Messerschmitt Bf109G-6 - 2./JG 302, October 1944 from Corgi and The Toy Headquarters for $68.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG34905.jpg


This interesting aircraft was flown by 2./JG 302 in October 1944 as a night fighter in home defense duties against Russian bombers.

According to regulations, the normal three-tone grey camouflage has been replaced by brown and dark green. The rare JG 302 “Wilde Sau� emblem is on both sides of the cowling, and depicts a Red devil riding a wild boar.

- Limited Edition - 1/32 Scale
- Diecast Metal
- Aviation Archives
- Wingspan 12 inches

Get your pig in the pen here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_59_76_96&products_id=1127&osCsid=5309fdde1096a3e894fba470bc4e4082

[KG_Jag]

Assuming that you are among those getting a tax refund or two, we have four ways you can spend all or part of that cash (or IOU if you're from places like California).

Both of our armor picks this week are by Dragon and are Tigers. However the first is much smaller and very affordable. Troy's Toys has the Dragon Armor Tiger I Early Production 8/2.PzGrenDiv, Das Reich, Russia 1943 on sale for only $9.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=60098&image=0

Begin your search of Eastern Front for Klink and Schultz here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=60098


We go large with our second pick--all the way to the 1:35 scale Tiger I "#122" (Initial Production), s.Pz.Abt.502 from UniToyzone for $54.99.

http://www.unitoyzone.com/images/DRR-61003.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:;)

1/35 Tiger I "#122" (Initial Production), s.Pz.Abt.502
This new 1/35 scale fully built-up model features an initial Tiger I with vehicle number “122”. It is skillfully hand painted in a stunning winter camouflage pattern as a member of sPzAbt 502. The original vehicle was one of the first Tiger I's ever to see combat on the Eastern Front.
Some of the peculiar features of this vehicle are the stowage bin mounted on the turret rear, and handrails on the turret sides. The lengthy 8.8cm scale gun barrel can even recoil!

True to 1/35 scale (2nd release in the series!)

Fully assembled
Accurate winter camo and markings for a Tiger I serving with s.Pz.Abt.502
Historically accurate
Hatches can be opened and closed
Front machine gun can rotate and point in different directions
Barrel can recoil, just like the real thing
Includes a display base
Get one here before all the snow melts:

http://www.unitoyzone.com/product_info.php?cPath=172_218_252&products_id=1085


Our flight selections this week will focus on RAF. Our third selection for the week is from Past-Time Hobbies for $27.99 and is the Corgi 1:72 scale BRITISH AEROSPACE HAWK T 1A APR 06
Item: AA36001

http://www.pthinc.com/userImages/productImages/AA36001_BAE_Hawk_1.jpg


See the air show here:

http://www.pthinc.com/373/1747/AVIATION-AIRCRAFT/CORGI-MILITARY-AIRCRAFT/CORGI-BRITISH-AEROSPACE-HAWK-T-1A-APR-06 (http://www.pthinc.com/373/1747/AVIATION-AIRCRAFT/CORGI-MILITARY-AIRCRAFT/CORGI-BRITISH-AEROSPACE-HAWK-T-1A-APR-06)


Our last selection this week is a 1:72 scale Gemini Aces Gemini Raf Spitfire MK.IX from The Airplane Shop for only $18.95.


http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/ga1005.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=13)


Invasion stripes have been pre-painted for your here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=13 (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=13)

[KG_Jag]

For you armor fans we have two good buys in two different scales for World War II armor fans,

The first is the 1:72 scale Admiral Panzer III H of 1941's Operation Barbarossa from Military issue for $9.99.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901351&size=large

Replicating a Panzer III H of 1941's Operation Barbarossa, during which the Panzer III achieved a 6:1 kill ratio vs. Soviet tanks, this 1/72 scale, die cast model features a rotating turret with an elevating gun, MG34 machine guns, an armored front and rear hull, separately applied detail parts, a weathered paint scheme and tracks, and more. 3" long; includes a removable base.

Moving from occupied Poland here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=8583&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Armor


From Hobby Master by way of Pete's, it's the 1:48 scale M4A3, ""Barracuda"" Company B, 41st Tank Battalion, 11th Armored Division, Bastogne, Dec. 30 1944 for $24.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HG1004.JPG

Button up and click here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=ShoppingCart&ItemNo=HG1004


Go to the air, Pete also has the 1:72 scale Hobby Master ""Helldiver Mk.I JW-104, No.1820 Naval Air Squadron, Fleet Air Arm, 1944"" for just $29.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HA2205.JPG

Grab one here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=ShoppingCart&ItemNo=HA2205


Another 1:72 scale bird from the Toy Federation at $24.95 is the Dragon F-15C Eagle 18th Wing (Kadena AFB, Okinawa 1993) #17686.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/images/t_17686.jpg


The 18th Wing is Kadena's host unit. It is the oldest wing on continuous active duty and is the only active wing whose fighters have never served in the continental United States. A variety of units form one of the world's largest and most complex airbases. The wing is responsible for approximately 20,000 Americans stationed at Kadena AB. Over 7,000 airmen, 11,000 family members and 1,300 civilians make up the base's Air Force community. An additional 3,000 Japanese civilians and 10,000 contract employees round out the team.

The 18th Wing's mission is to defend U.S. and Japanese' mutual interests by providing a responsive staging and operational airbase with integrated, deployable, forward-based air power. The focus of the unit's operations is directed to accomplishing this mission. Strategy used to employ this mission centers around a composite force of combat-ready fighter, air refueling, airborne warning and control and rescue aircraft.

Jet fans can land here:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=17686&cat=269&page=1


It's been a year of more since you could pick up this now rare GMP bird from GoMotorBids for just under $50.00 or at auction for $60.00 something. But now it's hard to find the 1/35 scale P-51D Mustang "Duchess Arlene" LIMITED EDITION die-cast model at any price less than a small fortune. If you have $199.99, you can still get one from Northstar Military Hobbies.

http://www.militaryhobbies.ca/custom/productzoom/gmp51004.JPG

Take a deep breath and land one here:

http://www.militaryhobbies.com/product.cfm?ProductID=6516

[KG_Jag]

Tanks used by the Allies during the World War II era is the theme this week with special emphasis on the Eastern Front. First up is the Soviet T-34/85 in the form of a Forces of Valor 1:32 scale from OB's for $39.95.

http://www.horizonhobby.com/ProdInfo/UNX/450/UNX80318-450.jpg?rand=388996015

This is the road to East Prussia:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_17&products_id=775


Going down to the 1:48 scale and turning to Hobby Master as presented by Pete's, we next feature the Russian JS-2 model 1944, with Polish Army, 1946 for just $19.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HG1103.JPG

Keep heading east to here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=HobbyMaster&ItemNo=HG1103#item


Our third armor pick this week takes us back to the good old USA and the Matchbox 1:72 (1:76?) scale SHERMAN M4E5 w/105 mm howitzer on M4A3 hull from notatoy for $15.95.

http://www.diecast72.com/pictures/matchbox/thumbmatchbox91744.jpg (http://www.diecast72.com/pictures/matchbox/matchbox91744.jpg)

MATCHBOX (tooling was made by C.D.C. Armour)

Matchbox Collectibles Asst. 91737

Sherman M4E5 w/105 mm howitzer on M4A3 hull
Diorama ‘Forrest Crossing’, Ardennes 1944.
Die Cast 1/72 scale; Panther A is approximately L 3 ¾�; W 1 7/8�

The tank has a unit number on a turret (#21) and its nickname on a side (Black-Jack) Despite relatively small size the model is exceptionally detailed and have a good paint job, display great!

This is a great model of WW II most produced tank was originally developed by C.D.C. of Italy for their Armour Series in early 90’s. Later C.D.C. decided to concentrate their effort in 1/48 and 1/100 scales military aircraft models Armour Series and most armored vehicles models in 1/72 scale were sold to Matchbox, which sold it as a part of their Limited Edition Collectors Series that was available mostly as a subscription at Matchbox Direct Sale. The price on Armour badge models was $35.00 and Matchbox kept this price until the entire limited edition Collectors Line was abandoned a few years ago. I believe six models from the series were issued in a new very attractive packaging, which includes a plastic diorama stand with clear top packed in a window box. This series was available for sale in a range of $16-22.

The series is out of production for a few years. "Recently" two new models were released by Matchbox in this series (Sherman w/75mm gun and Sherman 76mm long barrel gun w/camouflage painting), however both models released without a clear top for a display case.

Quality and details of C.D.C. Armour models are outstanding; models are diecast (unlike popular now Dragon Armor series, which has only some diecast parts if any – a Tiger tank mid and late production models are plastic and early production has only turret made of diecast). The only difference between original Armour Series models and Matchbox is Matchbox – Dinky name on the base plate of a model.

Get yours here while you can:

http://www.notatoy.com/product_info.php/cPath/320_45/products_id/1174


We also have three picks of the sky this week. The first is the 1:72 scale CENTURY WINGS VOUGHT F-8E CRUSADER USN VF-211 FIGHTING CHECKMATES CW601468 from Big Guns at $24.99.

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/Shared/images/CenturyWings/CW601468.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

Vought F-8E Crusader.
USN VF-211 Fighting Checkmates, NP100, USS Bon Homme Richard, Vietnam, 1967

Not many are left here:

http://biggunscol.webs.com/apps/webstore/products/show/1374839#


Our next pick is a 1:72 Corgi PBY Catalina in colorful Canadian service, which Burbank House of Hobbies has for $75.00.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-37481201299324_2105_393622028 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-37481201299324_2105_53097364)

You can't miss it here:

http://www.houseofhobbies.com/co1pbysacaha.html


Our last selection this week takes us back to the Russian Front. In the 1:72 scale from the Flying Mule, it's the SkyMax Flying Heroes SM2002
Lavochkin La-5 Diecast Model--Soviet Air Force 5th GIAP, Vitaliy Popkov, Eastern Front, Autumn 1944 for $19.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/SM-SM2002_06_thm.jpg
Length: 4.75" Width: 5.25"

The Lavochkin La-5 was a Soviet fighter aircraft of World War II. It was a development and refinement of the LaGG-3 and was one of the Soviet Air Force's most capable types of warplane. The La-5's heritage began even before the outbreak of war, with the LaGG-1, a promising yet underpowered aircraft – turning a full circle, for example, took 20 seconds.

The LaGG-3 was a modification of that design that attempted to correct this by both lightening the airframe and fitting a more powerful engine. Nevertheless, this was not enough, and the lack of power remained a significant problem. In early 1942, two of the LaGG-1 and -3's designers, Semyon Lavochkin and Vladimir Gorbunov, attempted to correct this deficiency by experimentally fitting a LaGG-3 with the more powerful Shvetsov ASh-82 radial engine. Since the LaGG-3 was powered by an in-line engine, they accomplished this by grafting on the nose section of a Sukhoi Su-2 (which used this engine). By now, the shortcomings of the LaGG-3 had caused Lavochkin to fall out of Stalin's favour, and factories previously assigned to LaGG-3 construction had been turned over to building the rival Yakovlev Yak-1 and Yak-7. The design work required to adapt the LaGG-3 to the new engine and still maintain the aircraft's balance was undertaken by Lavochkin in a small hut beside an airfield over the winter of 1941-1942, all completely unofficially. When the prototype took flight in March, the result was extremely pleasing - the fighter finally had a power plant that allowed it to perform as well in the air as it had been supposed to on paper.

After flying, the LaG-5 (the change in name reflecting that one of the original LaGG designers was no longer with the programme), Air Force test pilots declared it superior to the Yak-7, and intensive flight tests began in April. After only a few weeks, the design was modified further, cutting down the rear fuselage to give the pilot better visibility. By July, Stalin ordered maximum-rate production of the aircraft, now simply known as the La-5 and the conversion of any incomplete LaGG-3 airframes to the new configuration. While still inferior to the best German fighters at high altitudes, the La-5 proved to be every bit their match closer to the ground. With most of the air combat over the Eastern Front taking place at altitudes of under 5,000 m (16,400 ft), the La-5 was very much in its element. Its rate of roll was excellent.

Lavochkin La-5 (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_FTR_LA5)

Designed as a successor to the LaGG-3, the radial-engined, high-performance Soviet Lavochkin La5 was first flown in 1941. The La 5 had a beefy M-82 radial engine and was more aerodynamic than its predecessor. It was also superior to Luftwaffe fighters; it could roll faster than the Bf 109 and climb faster than the Fw 190. Many Soviet pilots—such as Ivan Kozhedub, who scored 62 German kills in the fuel-injected La 5FN variant—became aces while flying the La 5, which came to be regarded as the Soviet Union’s finest fighter of the era.

© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.

SkyMax Flying Heroes (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/skymax-flying-heroes)

The SkyMax "Flying Heroes" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. SkyMax offer the more price-sensitive collector a cheaper alternative to models from leading manufacturers like Corgi and Century Wings.

SkyMax"Flying Heroes" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Comrade, yours awaits here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/SM-SM2002

[KG_Jag]

Hopefully everyone had been extra good today to the mothers in his life.

We start with this week with a 1:30 scale Honour Bound US Amphibious Ford G.P.A. Jeep - US Marines version - from Treefrog Treasures for $75.00.

Features include:

1:30 scale
Accurate scale and dimensions
Modeled from historical photos and blueprints
Brass windshield frame
See-through plastic windshield
Windshield raises and lowers
Accurate detailing
Authentic vehicle and uniform colors
Matte-finish automotive paint used on jeep
Hand-numbered and hand-signed by the sculptors
Crafted in Argentina
http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/images/HB09d.jpg

Get one to float to you here:

http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/detail.aspx?ID=2196


Our next pick is a Corgi 1:50 scale German Half Track SdKfz.7/1 With Solders (CC60011) from JT's was at $24.99--just reduced to $19.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/corgi_germanhalftrack_60011.jpg&w=170&h=111 (http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/corgi_germanhalftrack_60011.jpg)

Corgi, Skirmish Collection, 1:50 Scale, World War II, German SdKfz.7/1 Half Track Anti-Aircraft Gun & 3 German Soldier Figures, Holland, 1944, #CC60011.

• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2006

• Scale: 1:50 Scale

• Product Attributes: Excellent Quality, Detailed, Accurate to Scale, Painted, Includes Three Soldier Figures, Moving Wheels

About the German Krauss-Maffel 8 Ton Skdfz.7 Half Track:

The SdKfz 7 (Sonderkraftfahrzeug 7) was a half-track military vehicle used by the German Wehrmacht during the World War II.

Development of the SdKfz 7 can be traced back to a 1934 requirement for an eight-tonne (7.87 tons) half-track. The vehicle first appeared in 1938 and was destined to be used mainly as the tractor for the 8.8 cm FlaK gun. The vehicle could carry up to 12 men and a considerable quantity of supplies, as well as pulling up to 8,000 kg (17,600 lb) of weight. Most were fitted with a winch, and the vehicle was widely admired as very useful. It was also outfitted as a weapons carrier, to particularly good effect with anti-aircraft weapons (SdKfz 7/1 and SdKfz 7/2). They also saw service as observation and command posts for V-2 (Vergeltungswaffe 2) batteries (Feuerleitpanzer auf Zugkraftwagen 8t). They were admired even by their enemies, with the British trying to make exact copies of captured vehicles and some vehicles being pressed into service by the Allies after the Second World War.

Variant Depicted By This Diecast Model (SdKfz 7/1): The SdKfz 7 with the 20 MM Flakvierling 38 L/112.5 Gun.


Get yours here before all the snow melts:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/corgi-german-half-track-sdkfz71-with-soldiders-cc60011-p-551.html


Showcase Toys has our flying first, the Corgi 1:72 scale F-4J Phantom II Model, US Navy, "Bicentennial" 1976 - Corgi AA33206 - priced at $29.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2102_15109983

Corgi Limited Edition Diecast Model

McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II - VX-4 Evaluators, "Bicentennial", U.S. Navy, NAS Point Magu, CA, 1976

1:72 scale. Length: 9.5". Wingspan: 6.25"


In November 1975, to commemorate the USA Bicentennial Anniversary in 1976, the U.S. Navy chose an F-4J Phantom II, No. 153088, to be repainted in an American flag scheme in time for the celebrations the following year. This model faithfully depicts that special paint scheme.

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom is a two-seat, twin-engine, supersonic jet fighter originally developed for the U.S. Navy. Proving highly adaptable, it became a major part of the air wings of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. The F-4 Phantom was used extensively by all three of these services in the Vietnam War, serving as the principal fighter/bomber for the U.S. Navy and Air Force, as well as being important in the ground-attack and air reconnaissance roles.

The F-4 Phantom entered service in 1960 and continued to form a major part of U.S. military air power throughout the 1970s and 1980s, being gradually replaced by more modern aircraft such as the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon in the U.S. Air Force; the F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 Hornet in the U.S. Navy and the F/A-18 in the Marine Corps. It remained in use by the U.S. in the reconnaissance and Wild Weasel roles in the 1991 Gulf War, finally leaving service in 1996. The Phantom was also operated by the armed forces of 11 other nations.

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate aircraft markings and landing gear with rubber tires. They can be displayed with the landing gear down or 'in flight' on the included stand.


This flag still waves here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa33206-f-4-phantom.html


Our final selection of the week is a Corgi 1:32 scale (AA34901) Messerschmitt 109G "Red 6" from International Toy Soldier Gallery for $79.99.


http://www.spitcrazy.com/AA34901_small.jpg (http://www.spitcrazy.com/AA34901.jpg)

Own your own Wilde Sau by starting here:

http://www.toysoldiersgallery.com/zencartstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=67_65&products_id=779 (http://www.toysoldiersgallery.com/zencartstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=67_65&products_id=779)

[KG_Jag]

Mid May Madness this week! Well maybe not, but I love alliteration.

Our first selection is a 1:72 scale Dragon King Tiger from JT's sale for just $9.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/jt_ddr60041_kingtiger.jpg

Dragon Armor King Tiger, 1.sPzKp (FKI) PzLehrRgt 130, Kaisersteinbruch 1944, #60041 • Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2003

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: High Quality, Detailed, Accurate to Scale, Painted

• Type of Display Case: Black Plastic Base with Clear Acrylic Cover

Brand new, unopened, mint in box condition; PLEASE NOTE that all product packaging and boxes will have some shelf ware and may have minor imperfections like creases, folds, indentions or small tears in the boxes.About the King Tiger:

The KönigsTiger (King Tiger) was the largest German tank to fight on the field of battle. It weighed 68 tons,had sloped armor plate 150 mm (5.905 inch.) thick,and a massive 88mm (3.464 inch in dia.)main gun ,with barrel length of over 20 ft.

The influence of the Panther tank design, greatly increased its expectations as a formidable foe, both offensively and defensively with the 88mm KwK43 L/71 main gun . There was no tank in the world safe around the King Tiger. The hitting power, (for a tank in WWII) was unmatched.

The King Tiger's worst enemy , however, was its enormous weight , causing poor performance and mechanical failure. Having a underpowered engine with a high fuel consumption added to the logistics nightmare the German Army faced deploying the King Tiger in battle where from fall 1944 to spring 1945 repair, fuel and railroad transport was a major problem.

History: 489 King Tigers were built from December 1943 to March 1945. They saw action on both eastern and western fronts, being issued to independent Schwere (heavy) Panzer units of both the Army and Waffen SS.

It's here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/dragon-armor-king-tiger-60041-scale-p-68.html


Next up is another Dragon KT, but this time it's the 1:35 scale King Tiger Henschel Turret Zimmerit 3./s.Pz.Abt.506 (61011) from Monkey Depot for $41.99 with the $5.00 weekend coupon code listed on the home page.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR61011.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

About This Tank
Weighing 69.8 tons, Germany's King Tiger tank entered production in mid-1944. It was an impressive vehicle, and being the final tank design to enter production during WWII, it could be seen as the pinnacle of German tank design. The King Tiger was armed with an 8.8cm KwK 43 L/71 gun and its frontal armor was up to 180mm thick. Such a formidable fighting machine had weaknesses though, since its heavy bulk and underpowered engine meant it wasn't as mobile as it should have been. Dragon Armor has launched its second fantastic fully built-up 1/35 scale model of a Tiger II. This Henschel production version of the King Tiger is based on a tank from 3./s.PzAbt 506 that fought on the Eastern Front in 1945.

Dragon's 1/35 scale tank is distinctive with a full coat of zimmerit on the hull and turret. This copy of the original anti-magnetic mine paste has been carefully and realistically crafted and textured to scale. The camouflage scheme feature red-brown stripes over a yellow base, along with tactical markings painted over the zimmerit in a most realistic manner. The designers and craftsmen responsible for this masterpiece have provided everything necessary to produce an accurate model. It even features delicately detailed engine mesh screens made from photo-etched metal.


Description:
- True to 1/35 scale
- Full coat of zimmerit on hull and turret
- Accurate two-tone camouflage scheme with weathering
- Accurate tracks with appropriate level of sag
- Includes a display base

Act fast to get one at this low price:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Dragon_Armor_King_Tiger_Henschel_61011_p/da0232.htm


Eagles International Mustangs are getting about as hard to find as a dodo, especially at a good price. Our next selection is one of their 1:48 scale "Tex" Hill P-51B--shark's mouth and all from this former Flying Tiger, for $49.99 from Crossroads Diecast.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-94511236631939_2103_38105887

Fly this hump to get one:

http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/35.html


Our last time around this week features the 1:72 scale Corgi - The Aviation Archive - Eurofighter Typhoon F.2, 17(R) Squadron, RAF Coningsby, Lincs 2006 offered by Troy's Toys for $29.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=AA36401&image=0

Light your afterburners and speed to this vector:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=AA36401

[KG_Jag]

We have three armor and three airplane selections this week. The first two in the armor category are from the (early) Memorial Day sale at Great Models. The first of these is the Dragon 1:35 scale Tiger I Late Production Pz.Abt.301 Koln 1945 for just $39.95.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61020.JPG

Completed diecast model ready for display - true scale, authentic paint scheme, plastic display case included. Features like steel road wheels and monocular sight in the mantlet to the right of the gun barrel.

With less than a hand full, left--click quickly here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61020


Sticking with Dragon and Great Models, but going down in scale and price, our nest pick is the 1:72 scale King Tiger Porsche Turret w/Zimmerit, 3./s.Pz.Abt.503, Hungary 1945 in winter camo for $8.45.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR62004.JPG

Open window display packaging - Highly popular and collectible item - True to 1/72 scale - Fully accurate mold - Fully assembled - Historically accurate markings and insignia.

It's still snowing here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR62004


Our final armor pick is a 1:50 scale U.S. Marine Corps, M48 "TULA" on sale at Historical Aviation for just $15.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091947&size=large

Smoke 'em while they got 'em here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=13012&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation


Historic Aviation also has our first two flying features. Both are 1:72 scale Corgi birds. Up next is the Kittyhawk Mk.IA (aka P-40) Royal Australian Air Force, Egypt, 1942 for $17.45.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091551&size=large

Her desert strip is here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=10544&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Allied Fighters


Our second air pick is the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vb Russian Air Force, USSR, 1943 for $23.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091887&size=large

Replicating one of 150 Mk.Vb Spitfires shipped from Britain to Russia in January of 1943, this 1/72 scale limited edition die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a pilot figure, a rotating propeller, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, authentic Russian Air Force markings, and more. 6" wingspan; includes a display stand.

Comrades--fall in here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12301&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Allied Fighters


Last up this week is the 1:72 scale Dragon F-15C Eagle 71st TFS, 1st TFW - (Langley AFB, VA) from The Toy Federation for $25.95.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/images/t_17684.jpg

The 71st Fighter Squadron is one of three fighter squadrons assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing. Its mission is to maintain a combat-ready force able to conduct air-superiority operations anywhere in the world for the United States and its allies.

In 1975, the 71st moved to its current home with the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley Air Force Base, Va., where it was equipped with the F-15 Eagle air superiority fighter in 1976.

The 71st garnered numerous awards in its distinguished career. The 71st Fighter Squadron won the prestigious Hughes Achievement Trophy in 1999, 1993 and 1969, awarded annually to the most outstanding air superiority unit in the Air Force. The 71st received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Presidential Unit Citation on four occasions each. McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Corporation recognized the 71st in July 1991, for achieving 110,000 flying hours without a serious mishap.

The 71st TFS deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield as part of the first U.S. Air Force contingent in Saudi Arabia. The squadron was integral in establishing allied air-superiority during the operation. More recently the squadron participated in Operation Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf Region. The unit was redesignated the 71st Fighter Squadron Sept. 1, 1991.

In a normal flying day, the 71st Fighter Squadron will launch approximately 25 sorties to fly training missions in air-to-air combat, aerial gunnery, and air defense intercepts.

Special Features:

- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Removable Weapons
- Detailed Cockpits
- Opening Canopies
- Moving Wing Flaps
- Pre-assembled
- Display In Flight or In Landing Mode

This way to Langley:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=17684&cat=269&page=1

[KG_Jag]

Happy Memorial Day and thanks to all who are serving or have served in the armed forces.

It is appropriate to start with the U.S. vehicle from World War II. In that regard we pick the Corgi Skirmish 1:50 scale M16 Quad .50 Half-Track from Historic Aviation for $24.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091675&size=large

When mounted like this in a group of four, machine guns were highly effective in both the anti-aircraft and anti-personnel roles. This limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast model of a Quad-50 Half-Track that served in Operation Dragoon - the Allied invasion of southern France in August, 1944 - features textured surfaces; factory-applied plastic detail parts such as supplies, tools and weapons; rolling wheels and tracks; a weathered U.S. Army camouflage scheme; three hand-painted pewter infantry figures; and more. 5" long.

They are closing them out here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=11452&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation


Up next its the Tamiya 1:35 scale T-55A Desert Version from Military Issue for $69.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901523&size=large

Replicating a Polish-built T-55A employed by Iraqi forces in the First Gulf War, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an aluminum gun barrel, an opening commander's hatch, an anti-aircraft heavy machine gun and a loader's hatch, rear-mounted fuel tanks, realistic metal tracks, a desert paint scheme, and more. 7¼" long; arrives ready to display.


Get 'em where it is hot:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=11435&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor


Our first pick from the sky is a great deal on Gemini Aces 1:72 scale Luftwaffe Bf 109F-4 from Collectable Jets for a mere $9.95.

http://collectablejets.hostasaurus.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/GALFT3001.jpg

Get one here while they last:

http://www.collectablejets.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=CJETS&Product_Code=GALFT3001&Category_Code=SPECIALS


The Carousel 1 birds are all but gone from retailers--especially at great prices. However, we have found a 1:48 scale Fw 190D-11 Karl-Heinz Hofmann, JV 44, April, 1945 for $34.95 at Historic Aviation.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0093320&size=large

JV 44 was a special fighter unit of top Luftwaffe pilots assembled during the final months of World War II. Replicating the long-nose "D" variant of the Fw 190 flown by Karl-Heinz Hofmann of JV 44 in April of 1945, this limited edition, 1/48 scale model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a sliding canopy and a pilot figure, optional-position landing gear, photo-etched radiator details and a rotating propeller, wing-mounted machine guns, authentic JV 44 markings and more. 8½" wingspan; includes a display base.

Scramble for one here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=13047&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Luftwaffe%20Aircraft

[KG_Jag]

It's D-Day anniversary week.

We'll start with a couple of items that have some connection to that history--directly or indirectly. The first is a Dragon 1:144 scale Tiger 1 from Great Models for just $1.70. The livery and version you may receive may look like this:

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Cando/cdo20051.JPG

PzKpfw VI - Assorted types/Accurate camouflage patterns, realistic weathering, prepainted and assembled, Early, Mid, Late versions, Bonus diorama base & display case.

Get one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=CDO20051


Up next is a 1:48 scale Tamiya German Sd.Kfz 250/3 GREIF - Finished from Micro Macro Mundo for $53.57.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26536.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26536)

Description: 1/48 German Sd.Kfz 250/3 GREIF - Finished Model
During WWII, on the North African Front, Field Marshall Rommel often rode, commanded his forces from his famous half-track Sd.Kfz250/3 with �GREIF� famously written on both sides. The Sd.Kfz.250/3 command vehicle was based on the mass produced Sd.Kfz.253's and kept the same fender and headlight base, angled rear armor plate, and observation windows. About the Model Comes in a two tone camouflage. After the washing process, a light weathering is administered which enhances the realistic finish. Compact cube-shaped package. Decals and high quality pad printed markings have a lifelike weathered appearance. Special spin-cast parts add a realistic feeling of weight to the Sd.Kfz.250/3. One Rommel figurine included. Combining this with the 1/48 Fieseler Fi156C Storch (Finished Model) (Item 21073) would make for great diorama.

Get the Desert Fox before Hitler does here:

http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26536


If the war in the air is you interest, we feature the 1:32 scale Corgi - The Aviation Archive Flight Line Collection - Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6 with 3 Figures, Hauptmann Anton Hackl from Troy's Toys for $69.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=US34907&image=0

If you missed this one at Tuesday Morning a few years ago, get it here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=US34907


Last up this week is a great deal from Pete's on the Hobby Master 1:72 scale F-4C Phantom II Spanish Air Force, 1970s ""C.12-40"", priced at just $29.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HA1913.JPG

She still on combat air patrol here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Items&ItemNo=HA1913#item

[KG_Jag]

We have three armor picks this week, the initial two of which are form Historical Aviation and are especially good buys. The larger of these two is the 1:35 scale Dragon Panther Ausf.G employed by the elite 1.Panzer Regiment 26 "Grossdeutschland" to counter the Allied invasion of Normandy in June, 1944 for just $39.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091475&size=large

This 1/35 scale plastic and metal model features a rotating turret and an elevating gun, opening hatches, separately applied detail parts, plenty of tools, realistic tracks, a stunning camouflage scheme with authentic markings, and more. Measures 9¾" long and arrives ready to display on the included base.

This way to Monty:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=15926&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation


If colorful cats and good deals are you're thing, you'll love the 1:50 scale Corgi Sherman "Easy Eight" (M4A3 E8) tank - with a hand painted Tiger face for just $19.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0090395&size=large

The hand painted Tiger face intended to scare the supposedly superstitious North Korean and Chinese soldiers - employed by the 89th Medium Tank Battalion in the Korean War, this limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast model features a rotating turret, separately applied plastic detail parts including a rotating machine gun, realistic rolling wheels and rubber tracks, authentic markings, and more. 5½" long; arrives ready to display.

Here's Kitty:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12194&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation


Our third armor selection is an 1:32 scale Forces of Valor M5A1 Stuart from Bad Cat for $33.00.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_41983656 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_41870650)
http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42015674 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_41870650)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42165868 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42019251)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42345001 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42169448)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42491336 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42349081)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42645065 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42495148)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42781399 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2109_42648239)

1:32 diecast model tank by Unimax Forces of Valor Enthusiast Edition 80204 "Carol". Features rotating turret, moving tracks and historically authentic paint scheme. Recommended for teen and adult collectors.


Product Features:

Diecast Metal Construction
Rotating Turret
Opening Front and Turret Hatches
Accurate Olive Drab Color
Two 1:32 Scale Fixed Action Figures
Diorama Accessories Included
History Card
Rotating Tracks
Highly Detailed
Complete and Ready for Your Diorama or Display Case
5½" Long
2½" Wide
3" Tall
About the Stuart Tank:
The M3 is an American tank from the World War II Era used with British and Commonwealth forces prior to the entry of the USA into the European Theatre. The name Stuart comes from J.E.B. Stuart from the American Civil War, and was used on both M3 and M5 light tank models. The M3 replaced the M2 by American tank designers when they realized the M2 had outlived its service. The M3 and M5 sport upgraded armor and weaponry, and in the M5 model the drivers hatch was moved to the top turret.


A light tank designed for American and Allied forces, serving in multiple theaters of WW2. Nicknamed the "Honey" for its quickness and dependability, it was nonetheless underarmored and undergunned. Tanks like the Stuart eventually took a secondary role to medium tank battalions, serving as recon and screening units.

Cut through this hedgerow to find it:

http://www.badcattoys.com/m5st1foofva8.html


Our first two flying selections are Dragon 1:72 scale World War II/Korea era birds. First off the ground is the Bf109G-2 Trop "Black 6" from Hobby Buy for $16.99.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50087.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Messerschmitt Bf109G-2 (10639) 'Black 6' was built in Leipzig late in 1942 and served in the Desert War. However, shortly into it's operational life it was found damaged and abandoned at Gambut, Tobruk. Shipped back to England for evaluation and testing as RN228 in RAF camouflage, it spent time with both 1426 Enemy Aircraft Flight at Collyweston and the Central Fighter Establishment at Tangmere. Following the end of the war it was stored for many years until a serious attempt of restoration started in 1972.

Nearly twenty years later, it flew again with the agreement that it would be flown for a limited period by the Imperial War Museum at Duxford before going on show at the RAF Museum. Following a forced landing in 1997 this aircraft was restored at Duxford and arrived at the RAF Museum, Hendon during 2002.

Apply your store bought Swazi decals here:

http://www.hobbybuy.com/us/prodi.asp?pid=DRW50087#


Next on the flight line is the 1:72 scale Dragon P-51D MUSTANG USAAF, 12FBS, 18FBG January 1951 from Free Time Hobbies for $16.55.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50040.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Dragon Warbirds 1/72 & 1/144 Diecast series (by Dragon Models) This series includes high quality diecast models of modern and historical military aircraft. All items are true to scale, they include detailed markings, have removable weapons, detailed cockpits, moving wing flaps and even opening canopies.

Get this early USAF bird here:

http://www.freetimehobbies.com/DRW50040.aspx


Last up this week is a 1:48 scale Forces of Valor AH-64A Apache Attack Helicopter--Kuwait, 1991 From the Toy Federation for $34.95.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/images/d_77.jpg

AH-64A Apache Attack Helicopter
Kuwait, 1991, 1:48 Scale

Please note that all forces of valor which we sell are the “Enthusiast” grade, not the basic “action” grade available at mass market stores.

On February 15, 1990, Desert Shield became Desert Storm. The Boeing AH-64A Apache Attack Helicopter was known to be the preeminent and most powerful tank killer in the Gulf War. This was an all-weather attack helicopter designed specifically to meet the rigid requirements of the US Army’s Advanced Attack Helicopter Plan.

The Apache is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic technology, including the nose-mounted TADS (Target Acquisition Designation System) for multiple targeting and terrain sensing in total darkness, with the PNVS (Pilot Night Vision System).

The firepower is awesome. The Apache can be loaded with 16AGM-114 Hellfire Missiles, AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, and laser guided anti-ground munitions.

Get one here before they all are all airborne to previously designated sectors:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=16567&cat=0&page=3

[KG_Jag]

Happy Father's Day to all the dads.

Our first pick for the ground pounders this week is the 1:30 scale Collectors Showcase Horch with Driver & W.Bittrich 9th SS from Michigan Toy Soldier for $83.99.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/CS00290Horchss.jpg

Get one for the Fuhrer in your life here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-CSC-00290-Horch_with_Driver_WBittrich_9th_SS.html


Toy Train Heaven announces their best deal in a newsletter. The latest includes the 1:35 Dragon Tiger I Late Production 1./s.Pz.Abt.505, Nowe Koszary 1944 for just $46.79. The price is good through COB on June 22nd, and the best way to order is to phone them (you can also send an email after hours).

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR61019.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Features

- True to 1/35 scale
- Accurate two-tone camouflage scheme with weathering
- Accurate tracks with appropriate level of sag
- Includes a display base

Dragon Armor is proud to announce a magnificent 1/35 scale rendition of a Tiger I from 1./s.Pz.Abt. 505 fighting in Nowe Koszary in 1944. It is a Late Production variant, with such associated features as steel road wheels, updated commander’s cupola, and single headlight centrally located in the center of the hull front. The heavy tank unit s.Pz.Abt. 505 was formed in January 1943. It was involved in the titanic tank battle at Kursk and returned to the Eastern Front after being refitted in July 1944. It saw combat in East Prussia in a vain attempt to stem the implacable tide of the Red Army.

This model tank is the result of painstaking craftsmanship, with even minute details carefully recreated. This is the advantage of the larger 1/35 scale, where even the tiniest of items can be shown in glorious detail. The model is topped off with a stunning two-tone paint scheme of green stripes over a yellow base coat. This Tiger I bears the famous “charging knight on horseback� insignia of s.Pz.Abt 505, this insignia being delicately rendered using the pad-painting process. A touch of color is also provided by a band of yellow on the base of the gun tube and the vehicle tactical number “334�. The model is expertly finished off with a tasteful level of dry-brushing and weathering, even down to its individual track links. For collectors seeking that something extra, this Tiger I from Dragon Armor will fit the bill!

The home page where you can find their 800 phone number is:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/


Aim Higher Jets is also having a sale--10% off with their coupon code--until midnight CDT June 21st. They offer the Corgi 1:144 scale Boeing B-52H Stratofortress Diecast Model, USAF SAC 7th BW, 9th BS, Carswell AFB, TX, March 1990 for $89.95. With the coupon applied the price drops to $80.95. Shipping is free regardless.

http://www.aimhigherjets.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CAA33508-2T.jpg


The 7th BW's B-52s wore a tail stripe on which was superimposed the skull of the Texas Longhorn. Its two squadrons were primarily assigned to the strategic strike role, using the AGM-86 ALCM.

Corgi’s 1:144 scale B-52s are surprisingly large and heavy, weighing in at almost three pounds. Each model includes a heavily constructed all metal display-stand for in-flight display. The series includes most production variants, from early versions with large tail fins and pivoting tail machine gun turrets to the later B-52H, with its clipped tail fin and 20mm Vulcan cannons. The engine nacelles contain both intake and exhaust details, and the cockpit windscreen is masterfully integrated. The center landing gear is keyed to provide easy configuration for ground display with a set of wing tip gear for balance.

This big boy lands here:

http://www.aimhigherjets.com/Corgi_Aviation_Archive_Collector_Series_US33508_B_ p/caa33508.htm


Our next jet is the 1:72 scale Witty F-16C Hellenic Air Force Greek Air Force 346th Mira Jason Sqn. 40,000 Hrs special markings from Fantastic Flyers for $19.95.

Length: 8"
Wingspan: 5"

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/images/WTW-72-010-017.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:;)

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/images/pixel_trans.gif



Each fully painted and assembled model features:

Realistic panel lines. Hardly a detail is missed.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade.
Fixed landing gear.
About this aircraft:



The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon was conceived from a USAF requirement for a new lightweight, low-cost air superiority fighter. The first production F-16A made its maiden flight on the 7th August 1979. Although designed primarily as an air superiority fighter, during the evaluation programme the F-16 proved it had the makings of an excellent air-to-ground warplane. The first operational unit was 'combat ready' in October 1980 which was the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) at Hill AFB in Utah. General Dynamics sold their company's aircraft production facilities to Lockheed Martin in 1996 and the Lockheed Martin F-16 now serves with over 18 countries around the world.


She's flying here until her home land runs out of cash:



http://www.fantasticflyers.com/f16c-hellenic-force-wtw72010017-p-1459.html


Last up this week is the Hobby Master 1:48 scale U.S. F9F-2 Panther - 'Jolly Rogers' from Wartoyz for $49.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/ha7205-f9f-panther-450.jpg

The U.S. F9F Panther was the first jet fighter manufactured by Grumman and was the most widely used U.S. Navy jet fighter during the Korean War. It was also responsible for the first air kill by the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

This highly detailed 1:48 scale version of the U.S. F9F-2 Panther depicts the aircraft flown by Lt. Lawrence Cauble of VF-61 ('Jolly Rogers') of the USS Franklin Roosevelt as is it was seen in 1951.

This U.S. F9F-2 Panther is part of Hobby Master's Air Power Series. The 1:48 scale die cast metal aircraft is approximately 9.5 inches long with an 9 inch wingspan, and includes detailed features such as foldable wings, slide open canopy, retractable undercarriage, and detachable fuel tanks. The aircraft also includes a pilot figure.

Get her landing on what might have been FDR's fifth term:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/HM-HA7205

[KG_Jag]

The ground belongs to American and the air to Germany this week.

Our first AFV this week is a 1:50 scale Corgi M48 Tank from OB's for $19.95.

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/images/u/us50304/us50304.jpg

You can find her clean as a whistle here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_17&products_id=461


Next up is the 1:32 scale Forces of Valor Die Cast US M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage Ardennes 1944 from Freetime Hobbies for $26.95.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51KIrFaPRCL._SS500_.jpg

If you want one, better hurry here:

http://www.freetimehobbies.com/FOV81311-1.aspx (http://www.freetimehobbies.com/FOV81311-1.aspx)


It's just about last call for Carousel 1 1:48 scale planes at closeout prices--especially so for the remaining popular models and liveries. Among those is the Franz Goetz, JG 26 FW 190D-13. Historic Aviation still has some in stock and is willing to part with one for $34.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0093315&size=large

This limited edition, 1/48 scale die cast model of a long-nose "D" variant of the FW 190 features engraved panel lines; a detailed cockpit with an opening canopy and a pilot figure; optional-position landing gear; an external fuel tank; photo-etched radiator details and a rotating propeller; the markings of Franz Goetz, the 63-victory ace who was the last commander of JG 26; and more. 8½" wingspan; arrives ready to display on the included base.

Get one here before the war...err...sales end:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12740&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Luftwaffe Aircraft


Another one of the fast disappearing 1:48 Carousel 1 birds is the Franz von Werra, Battle of Britain Messerschmitt Bf 109E. Historic Aviation also has this on the sales block for $34.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0093303&size=large

Replicating the Bf 109E flown by 21-victory ace Lt. Franz von Werra - who was called "The One That Got Away" for his daring escapes from POW camps and his brazen attempt to steal an RAF Hurricane Mk.II - in the Battle of Britain, this limited edition, 1/48 scale die cast model features fine surface details; a fully outfitted cockpit with glazed instruments, an opening canopy and a removable figure of Werra; optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires; a rotating propeller; authentic JG 3 markings; and more. 9¼" wingspan; includes a display base.

Flying over the Channel on this vector:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=13376&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Luftwaffe Aircraft

[KG_Jag]

Less than an hour ago the fireworks ended at the Aces' ballpark. It's now time to see if we can find from 4th of July worthy explosive deals.

We'll start big--very big, with the 1:16 scale Forces of Valor US Sherman M4A3 Tank Normandy 1944 from Great Models for $309.80.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Forcesofvalor/PCH85007.JPG

This amazing Sherman Tank model is die cast metal! Included is a 1:16th scale replica of 3 soldiers. The tracks are metal and they roll!

See if one is left here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=PCH85007


Going small, we next feature the Dragon 1:72 scale Panzer IV Ausf. F-2, PzRgt15 11.PzDiv, #12, Russia, 1942 from the Flying Mule's sale for $12.99.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR60088.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Over 6,000 examples of Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks were produced between 1943 and 1945. Armed with a short-barrel 75mm gun and driven by a 250-horsepower engine, the Panzer IV quickly became the workhorse of Panzer Divisions. After the appearance of the Russian T-34—with its dominant guns and heavier, sloped armor—the Panzer needed design modifications such as thick side and turret skirts, a new gun (the KwK 40 75mm L/48) and a larger turret. With these upgrades, the Panzer IV proved equal to the Soviet T-34 and was also effective against British tanks and American M-4 Sherman Medium Tanks.

Dragon's 1:72 scale Panzer IV is constructed almost entirely of diecast plastic, which allows for the greatest possible level of detailing. Featuring a 360-degree rotating turret with elevating cannon, the model's hatches, hinges, welded amour plating and turret are all stunningly accurate, and the same level of detailing has been applied to the vehicle's track system. The model's underside features riveted armor plating and leaf-spring suspension. Subtle airbrushed weathering with hand-painted tools and equipment add a finishing touch.


The Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made plastic models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor tanks require no glueing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box and is 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.





Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" display model vehicles feature:

Molded plastic construction (some releases include diecast metal components).
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Clear acrylic display case to protect model.
Get the first of the long barrel 75's here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-60088


Our first pick from the air is from Pete's sale. It is a Corgi 1:48 scale Luftstreitkrafte Jasta 4, Ernst Udet, June 1918, D.VII for just $29.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/AA38902.JPG

Fly into World War I here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=AA38902#item


Finally, we can't let a 4th of July pass without featuring a bird like the 1:72 scale Corgi F-4J Phantom II Model, US Navy, "Bicentennial" 1976 - Corgi AA33206. Showcase Toys has it for just $29.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2114_14075182

Corgi Limited Edition Diecast Model

McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II - VX-4 Evaluators, "Bicentennial", U.S. Navy, NAS Point Magu, CA, 1976

1:72 scale. Length: 9.5". Wingspan: 6.25"


In November 1975, to commemorate the USA Bicentennial Anniversary in 1976, the U.S. Navy chose an F-4J Phantom II, No. 153088, to be repainted in an American flag scheme in time for the celebrations the following year. This model faithfully depicts that special paint scheme.

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom is a two-seat, twin-engine, supersonic jet fighter originally developed for the U.S. Navy. Proving highly adaptable, it became a major part of the air wings of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. The F-4 Phantom was used extensively by all three of these services in the Vietnam War, serving as the principal fighter/bomber for the U.S. Navy and Air Force, as well as being important in the ground-attack and air reconnaissance roles.

The F-4 Phantom entered service in 1960 and continued to form a major part of U.S. military air power throughout the 1970's and 1980's, being gradually replaced by more modern aircraft such as the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon in the U.S. Air Force; the F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 Hornet in the U.S. Navy and the F/A-18 in the Marine Corps. It remained in use by the U.S. in the reconnaissance and Wild Weasel roles in the 1991 Gulf War, finally leaving service in 1996. The Phantom was also operated by the armed forces of 11 other nations.

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate aircraft markings and landing gear with rubber tires. They can be displayed with the landing gear down or 'in flight' on the included stand.

Fly your flag over to here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa33206-f-4-phantom.html

[KG_Jag]

We open with some 1:35 scale Oryon soldiers we found at Michigan Toy Soldiers. They are a mixed "team" of 82nd and 101st Airborne for $20.99 if you sign up as a preferred customer and $29.99 if you don't.

http://www.aurorahistoryboutique.com/products/LB00323.jpg

Drop in here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-OYN-2003-U.S._Paratroopers.html


On Mark has a number of Dragon 1:72 AFV's priced at just $9.00. This week we feature the T-34/76 Model 1941, 1st Guards Tank Brigade, Moscow 1942.

</B>http://www.onmarkint.com/static/images/6/60135/60135.jpg

Find it hiding in the snow just over half way down this page:

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/dragon/dragon_mil_veh.php



Our second armor pick this week is 1:32 scale Forces of Valor U.K. M 3 Grant El-Alamine, 1942 from OB's for $32.95.

http://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SMMdGpJMDfeZrA9PilLz_WA-bmHIbDE4-8Qpiv0Rippq3NnfEndX40wYCBj2cnI0XF_W5zmP748Ai9lPNWf hxaZtNsm9i1JARG_B35WfOMzNrTTIeZE5IXQspsslDfFP7vUC2 mBlhL-HurY2TLoTjCmTwB6xjH9sLiSrkQ (http://www.google.com/products?q=forces+of+valor+grant&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=UTF-8&rlz=1I7ADBR&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=Tq86TNyHCoP5nAfBnID3Dw&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&ct=image&resnum=4&ved=0CDkQzAMwAw)

Look behind this sand dune:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_17&products_id=784


Leaping skyward, we next feature the 1:144 scale Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA31203 Avro Vulcan K.Mk 2 Diecast Model, RAF No.50 Sqn, RAF Waddington, England, Black Buck Campaign 1982. The Flying Mule has it on sale for $39.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA31203_06_thm.jpg
By the end of March 1982, the Royal Air Force Vulcan B.2 fleet had been reduced to three squadrons, all based at Waddington, and the final withdrawal of the type was imminent. However, the Falklands conflict was to substantially change these plans, leading to the Vulcan's use in anger for the first time in nearly 25 years of service. The 'Black Buck' bombing operations have already been marked by a Corgi model of a Vulcan bomber, but the shortage of tankers after the Falklands operations meant the Vulcan was about to be adapted to a new role - a tanker! 101 Squadron disbanded on 4th August 1982, followed by 44 Squadron on 21 December, leaving 50 Squadron as the only Vulcan unit to survive into 1983 after its aircraft had received a new lease of life directly resulting from the War with Argentina.

Avro Vulcan K.Mk 2 (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_JET_BMR_VULCAN)

Designed to meet an Air Ministry specification for a high-speed, high-altitude, long-range nuclear bomber, the Avro Vulcan was first flown on August 30, 1952. Though revolutionary, the Vulcan's original delta wing tailless design was an unknown quantity. The first prototype crashed in the fall of 1949 and the early straight leading edge design was later modified to kink toward the wingtip, giving the service aircraft superior flying characteristics. Carrying Britain's first nuclear weapon (the Blue Danube), the Vulcan's original role was nuclear deterrence, but it was later modified for air-to-air refueling missions and maritime radar reconnaissance.

Corgi's 1:144 scale Vulcan is constructed almost entirely of solid diecast metal. The top portion of model's fuselage and wing are cast as one solid piece, which gives this model a seamless look. The nose features a sturdy metal pitot tube and pad printed cockpit windows with details of the crew access door below. The model's large wing has been masterfully rendered and features turbo fan blade details inside the skillfully shaped engine intakes. Configuration of the model for ground display is easy with landing gear that installs quickly, and there is also a multi-position display stand for in flight display.

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.



Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed, hand-painted pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as speed-brakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.
Yours awaits here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CG-AA31203

Wrapping up the picks for this week is the 1:48 scale Carousel 1 F4F-4 Wildcat VMF-121, Henderson Field, Capt. Joe Foss from Racers Den for $32.95.

http://www.racersdeninc.com/v/vspfiles/photos/6181-2.jpg

Model wingspan
9-1/4"/235mm

Model length
8"/222mm

Model weighs more
than 1 lb/.46kg

Full cockpit detail

Glazed instruments

Removable Pilot Figure

Retractable or Extended Landing Gear

NO Exposed screws

Decorative Display

Tailhook one here:

http://www.racersdeninc.com/product_p/6181.htm

[KG_Jag]

As we reach the dog days of summer, we'll start with a ride for World War II dogfaces. It is the 1:32 scale Forces of Valor U.S. M3A1 halftrack With 3 Soldiers Normandy 1944 from OB's for $31.95.

http://www.swapmeet-models.co.uk/images/forces-of-valor/81214-us-halftrack.jpg

Grab a ride here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_18&products_id=785


From the other side of the line (more or less), we next feature the Dragon 1:72 scale StuG IV Early Version - StuG Brigade 912 Kurland, 1944 from Troy's Toys for only $9.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=60069&image=0

Go here to add it to your collection:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=60069


We get a bit more modern with our air selection. The first is the Corgi 1:72 scale MARTIN RB-57A USAF, GERMANY from Wings Models for $59.99.

http://www.davesdiecastmodels.co.uk/images/AA34704.jpg

Here's the link:

http://wingsmodel.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=Wings&Product_Code=AA34704&Category_Code=COR


Last up (and away) this week is the Corgi 1:72 scale Canadair Sabre F.I-- 234 Squadron of the 2nd Tactical Air Force based at RAF Gelenkirchen, Germany, in 1954. Historic Aviation has it for $23.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091912&size=large

This 1/72 scale die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a bubble canopy and a pilot figure, optional-position landing gear with rubber tires, authentic markings, and more. 6" wingspan; includes a display stand.

You may be a hoser, if you don't click here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12326&product=Models+and+Kits&category=military&subcategory=244

[KG_Jag]

We start this week with a selection honoring another long time vendor leaving the scene--in this case as of August 1st. From Wings and Wheels, we feature the Hobby Master 1:48 scale FW-190A-8/R1 - HAUPTMANN WILHELM MORITZ, IV/JG C, AUGUST, 1944 offered for $44.95.

http://www.wingsandwheel.com/images/hobbymaster/HA7403.jpg

Find it just a bit more than half way down this web page:

http://www.wingsandwheel.com/hobbymaster.htm


Stay aloft, we next feature the Gemini Aces 1:72 scale P-51B Mustang "Berlin Express" from EZToys for $27.99.

http://www.geminijets.com/pics/GAUSA2004.jpg

Quick Overview

Photo-etched, spinning metal propellers
Rolling rubber tires
Movable control surfaces
Optional landing gear up/down configuration
Superior quality graphics
Stand included
All Metal

Pick one off here:

http://www.eztoys.com/u-s-air-force-p-51b-mustang-berlin-express.html


Our third pick of the air this week is a Corgi 1:72 scale Hawker Typhoon MK.IB from Mark Twain Hobby Center for $19.99.

http://images.nitrosell.com/product_images/8/1911/AA36501_Typhoon%5B1%5D.jpg

Toward the end of May 1943, three Hawker Typhoons were sent for operational flight trials in the Middle East. 219 Group RAF, who were responsible for finding a lodger unit for these service trials decided finally upon 451 Sqn RAAF. The Typhoon would have been an exciting follow-on to the Hawker Hurricane IIc then operated by the squadron. 451 Sqn at LG.106 near Idku under command of Sqn Ldr J Paine, having been recently withdrawn from frontline operations, would provide personnel for the tests.
Part Number: CRGAA36501

Grab one here:

http://hobby1.com/store/product/151619/1-72-Hawker-Typhoon-MK.IB-%27/


For our AFV fans, we start off with something really big. It's the Forces of Valor 1:18 scale U.S. M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage (OD Green) from The Diecast Junkie for $32.95.

http://www.thediecastjunkie.com/product_images/w/463/71003__18132_zoom.jpg

Product Description

1:18th Scale Bravo Team U.S. M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage in plastic

Open both arms and get one here:

http://www.thediecastjunkie.com/products/U.S.-M16-Multiple-Gun-Motor-Carriage--%28OD-Green%29-1%7B47%7D18-Scale.html


Also on the larger size are our next two selections from the Christmas in July Sale at Great Models. Both are from Dragon in the 1:35 scale.

Offered at just $54.95 is the DRR61013 Super Heavy Self-Propelled Mortar 54 cm Morser Thor Firing Mode.


http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61013.JPG Dragon Armour

Category: Pre-Painted Armor Models 1/35
Fully assembled, True to scale, fully accurate mold, and open window display packaging. This is a highly popular and collectible item. Includes a protective case.

Roll here to get one:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61013


Last this week is Panther G w/Zimmerit Pz.Brig.106, Northern France 1944 for a low $39.45.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61022.JPG

Category: Pre-Painted Armor Models 1/35

Kit features open window display packaging, Highly popular and collectible, fully accurate mold, and it includes a protective display case.

Hide the Shermans and click here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61022

[KG_Jag]

August has arrived and so has the first pick this month. By way of the Hobby Bunker it's a 1:35 scale W. Britain German Steyr Truck with Figures--WWII Stalingrad for $75.00.

German Steyr Truck with 3 Figures--RETIRED

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/17606.jpg

Get in while they still have one:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=11098


Next up is a 1:32 scale German piece, but his one is from Forces of Valor by way of OB's. It a KS750 Zundapp side car (Poland ,1944) for $26.95.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ZqISCQ3kL._SS500_.jpg

They are hard to find, but you can still ride one here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_18&products_id=792


We have three flyers this week. We start with an excellent deal from Pete's on a 1:72 scale Hobby Master TBF-1C Aneger NZ2518 ""Plonky"", 30 sq., RNZAF, Piva, Bougainville, 1944 offered for just $19.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HA1204.JPG

Here's where you can land one on your carrier deck:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=/HobbyMaster&ItemNo=HA1204#item


Next up is a Hobby Master 1:72 scale diecast UH-1C Huey "Frog"(174th AHC, Vietnam)--"Ace of Spades," Sharks Gun Platoon, 174th AHC, Vietnam. Warpaint has it for $29.95.

http://www.warbirdcollectibles.com/images/HH1004.jpg


In 1966, 13-victory World War II ace Brig. Gen. Robert Scott gave permission to the 174th Assault Helicopter Company "Sharks" to use the shark's mouth nose art made famous by the 1st American Volunteer Group "Flying Tigers" in World War II. He signed his letter to the 174th: "Good hunting and GOOD LUCK!"

Replicating Ace of Spades - a UH-1C Huey "Frog" piloted by Gary Harter of the 174th Assault Helicopter Company "Sharks," 14th Combat Aviation Battalion, when it was brought down during Operation Lam Son 719 in Laos on March 3, 1971 - this 1/72 scale die cast Hobby Master model features engraved panel lines; a detailed cockpit and glazed windows; movable rotors; realistic armament, including machine guns, side-mounted twin rocket pods and a nose-mounted 40mm automatic grenade launcher; authentic markings, including shark's mouth nose art; and more. 7¼" rotorspan; includes a display stand.

Put on some Hendrix and click here:

http://www.warbirdcollectibles.com/scale-diecast-uh1c-huey-frog174th-vietnam-p-907.html?osCsid=3084fef44e8c69e9f46173bce6128fac


Last on the flight line this week is a Dragon 1:72 scale aircraft replica with Oklahoma Air National Guard markings. Get it from The History Store for $24.95.

http://www.greathistorygifts.com/catalog_images/DRW50032_W.jpg

Highly detailed Dragon Models 1:72 scale F-16C aircraft replica with Oklahoma Air National Guard markings.



Static, pre-assembled, pre-painted model made of both diecast and plastic.
Fully detailed and historically accurate.
Historically accurate colors and markings.
You don't to go to Muskogee to land one--just click here:

http://www.greathistorygifts.com/disp_item_detail.asp?item_id=8856

[KG_Jag]

Hot August Nights has ended and the classic car have left town. However, we'll do our best to come up with some hot deals to fill the void.

Both of our armor picks this week are 1:32 scale. First up is the Forces of Valor German Sd. 251/9 Kanonenwagen Hungary, 1945 from OB's for $32.95.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41lgwcoViTL._SL500_AA300_.jpg (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B000FESU6C/ref=dp_image_z_0?ie=UTF8&n=165793011&s=toys-and-games)

It's not Hungary, but you can get one here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_18&products_id=789


For those with a decent diecast budget during these tough times, we next feature the Collectors Showcase M8 Stuart 75mm Howitzer - Normandy from Hobby Bunker for $119.99.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/cs00383(L)1.jpg

The M8 was developed on a request for a light close support vehicle to operate within tank battalions. The light tank M5 fitted with a 75 mm Pack Howitzer in a larger, open topped fully traversable turret with the 75 mm howitzer in mantlet that allowed a barrel elevation of up to + 40 degrees. 1,778 were produced between September 1942 and January 1944. Only the US Army in NW Europe, Italy and the Pacific used them from June 1944.

Limited Edition of 300.

Includes three crew, the optional thrown track ( the thrown track option has been so popular they are now including it with all of new vehicles! ) a fully detailed turret interior and removable stowage.

Crimple your credit card here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=20597


They almost certainly have a store in you neighborhood. Our first pick-D-aire is from none other than Target. It is the Unimax Forces of Valor 1:32 scale U.S. P-39Q Airacobra for $41.98.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0013UB460.16._SX400_SCLZZZZZZZ_V217293067_.jpg

Here's their on-line order page:

http://www.target.com/Unimax-Forces-Valor-Scale-Airacobra/dp/B0013UB460


Finally, we have found a vendor who says that they have at least one 1:72 scale Corgi McDonnell Douglas F-4N Phantom II US Navy VF-111 Sundowners. AIRshows America offers it for $39.95.

http://www.daveswebshop.com/aa33201.jpg

This model is an authentic replica of the McDonnell Douglas F-4N Phantom II flown by fighter pilots of the US Navy fighter squadron VF-111 Sundowners. On 6 March 1972, while flying from the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), VF-111 crew LT Garry Weigand and LTJG Bill Freckleton engaged and shot down a MiG-17 near Quang Lang Airfield in North Vietnam. Their aircraft, F-4B, NL 201, BuNo 153019, was restored to the original paint scheme by the current Sundowner squadron and is displayed on a pedestal just inside the main gate at NAS Key West, Florida. The squadron later transitioned to the F-4N version of the Phantom, and in late 1976 through early 1977 made an Atlantic and Mediterranean deployment, a rare event for a Pacific Fleet squadron. The Sundowners deployed with the rest of CVW-15 aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CV-42) for that carrier's final cruise before decommissioning and the squadron's final deployment with the venerable F-4. The squadron returned to NAS Miramar in April 1977 and began to divest itself of its F-4 Phantom II in preparation for transition to the F-14 Tomcat.

Get the last one on deck here:

http://airshowsamerica.biz/cart/mcdonnell-douglas-f4n-phantom-ii-us-navy-vf111-sundowners-p-616.html

[KG_Jag]

We start the celebration of the week of my father's 85th birthday with a Minichamps 1:35 scale GERMAN PZKPFW TIGER "RUSSIA 1943" from Diecast Direct for $89.95. If you're in a buying mood, this tank is also in a mixed group of "buy 4 and get 1 free".

http://imagehost.vendio.com/bin/imageserver.x/00000000/lightning2000/35010002.jpg (http://www.steelbikereviews.com/k?view=goto&jump=/Minichamps-1-35-German-Tiger-I-Tank-Russia-1943_W0QQitemZ170490954857QQcategoryZ171138QQvarZQ QcmdZViewItem)

Your heavy metal awaits here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=MIN10002


Our next two picks are from the Summer Sale at the Monkey Depot. The first is a 1:48 scale Hobby Master M4 105mm Assault Gun 6th Armored, Houfallize (HG1008) for $23.99.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0303-2.jpg

Description: Initially known as the T6 medium tank, M4 Sherman was the workhorse for the US Army during WWII. M4 was named after Union General William Tecumseh Sherman (1820-1891). The tank went into production in Oct.1941 and went into service in late 1942. A total of 49,234 of Sherman gun tanks were produced and only the Russian T-34 had produced in greater numbers.

The M4 was basically designed as an infantry support tank , it was thin armored and carried a relatively small caliber main gun for greater speed and minimum fuel consumption. Though not on par with Germany 's heavy tanks like Tiger and Panther in terms of firepower and armor protection, M4 medium tank was famed for its reliability, mobility and ease of maintenance. It could be transported by rails, put into ships and carried all over the world. M4 was seen in almost every battlefield from 1942 on wards and had contributed much to the success of the Western Allies.

Cool off here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_M4_105mm_6th_Armored_HG1008_p/hm0303.htm


We'll file jet up to our next selection, the 1:72 scale SkyMax Models F-84E Thunderjet 36 FBW Commander, Germany 1952 (SM6002) for $29.99 from Arizona's Monkey Depot.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/SM0015-2.jpg

Description:
-Incredible detail
-Stand included
-Landing gear can be displayed up or down

Land it here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/SkyMax_Models_F_84E_Thunderjet_SM6002_p/sm0015.htm


Joe Pilot has out last pick of this birthday week with the Witty 1:72 scale Sea Fury 254 Iraqi Air Force Baghdad for $19.99.

http://www.joepilot.com/mmJOEPILOT/Images/480x480/A02WTW72015-007.jpg


The Hawker Sea Fury Carrier borne fighter-bomber was the British Fleet Air Arm's last piston-engined fighter, developed during WWII it did not see service with the Fleet Air Arm until after the war. It was arguably the fastest piston powered aircraft ever manufactured.

The Sea Fury was used by the FAA, Canada, Holland, Australia, and other countries including the Iraq Air Force. A total of 55 "de-navalized" Sea Fury that lacked a tail hook, folding wings and other naval equipment served with the Iraqi Air Force beginning in 1948 and well into the 1970s.

Scale 1:72 - Length 5.69" Span 6.25"
Item Number: A02WTW72015-007

Fly Air Hussein here:

http://www.joepilot.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=A02WTW72015%2D007&eq=&Tp=

[KG_Jag]

This week both of our armor picks are 1:72 Dragoons and both are $9.99.

First up from Pete's is the LVTP-7 SPECIAL VERSION!!

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/DRR60057S.JPG

Float your Hamilton less a copper Lincoln here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=DRR60057S#item


JT's has the Sd.Kfz. 181 Tiger-I Mid Production, sPzAbt 509, 1944, #60019. This particular Tiger I was part of the 509th Tank Battalion, mounted the lethal 88 mm L/56 cannon and was fighting on the Russian front in 1944.


http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/jt_ddr60019_tiger.jpg?osCsid=fd5e1c6d8f95f239117a8 3b0c12e1a07

• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2004

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: High Quality, Detailed, Accurate to Scale, Painted

• Type of Display Case: Black Plastic Base with Clear Acrylic Cover


Find her trying to keep the T-34's at bay here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/dragon-armor-tiger-60019-scale-p-61.html


First in the air this week is a 1:48 scale Carousel 1 Tomahawk IIB Clive Caldwell, RAF Desert Air Force from Military Issue for $39.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0093302&size=large

Named Tomahawk in British Commonwealth service, the American-built P-40 Warhawk saw its first-ever combat with the squadrons of the Desert Air Force in the North African campaign in June, 1941.

Replicating the famous Tomahawk IIB flown by 28-victory ace Flight Lieutenant Clive Caldwell - the highest-scoring Australian ace of World War II - of No. 250 Squadron, DAF, in 1941 Libya, this 1/48 scale, die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with an optional-position canopy and a removable figure of Caldwell, a rotating propeller, optional-position landing gear, authentic Royal Air Force markings, and more. 9¼" wingspan; includes a decorative display base.

Kick up some sand here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=9560&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Allied Fighters


Next in the air is the 1:72 scale Witty Diecast Airplanes F-14A TOMCAT VX-4 from Toy Train Heaven for only $15.30.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/9025-7200915S.jpg

Tailhook this Tom Cruise:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Model%20Air%20Planes%20Die%20Cast--Witty%20Diecast/79178220/Witty%20Diecast%20Airplanes%20F-14A%20TOMCAT%20VX-4%201%3A72%20%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2421.8


As bonus this week we'll take you where no diecast collector has gone before. From Toy Train Heaven and Corgi, it's the USS ENTERPRISE D Star Trek Ltd. for $25.99.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/2053-96609S.jpg

Engage!:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Model%20Air%20Planes%20Die%20Cast--Corgi/79149935/CORGI%20DIECAST%20USS%20ENTERPRISE%20D%20Star%20Tr ek%20Ltd%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2437.02

[KG_Jag]

The fans at the blues festival in Reno this weekend were surprised by a cold front, which was particularly hard on those who came in from CA. However, we'll try to recapture some heat with our picks of this week.

First up is the Corgi 1:50 scale CORGI ADVERSARIES FORGOTTEN HEROES T34 85 TANK NORTH KOREAN from Past-Time Hobbies for $29.99.

http://www.pthinc.com/userImages/productImages/t34%20tank.jpg;jsessionid=0770A0B3992EE6C0B5DA30AA B28A94B8

60 years ago next year; click here:

http://www.pthinc.com/430/1728/-INTERNET-SPECIALS-/CORGI-ADVERSARIES-FORGOTTEN-HEROES-T34-85-TANK-NORTH-KNREAN-02


We move to the 1:32 scale for the Forces of Valor German Panzer IV Ausf G. Eastern Front, 1943 from OB's for $39.95.

http://dev.forcesofvalor.com/images/product/primary_image/80314.jpg

Army Group Center needs your help here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_17&products_id=773


For you jet and baseball fans of the 50's, we feature the 1:48 scale Hobby Master Grumman F9F-5 Panthers VMF-311 "Ted Williams" (HA7206) from the Monkey Depot for $43.99.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0316-4.jpg

Description: On May 1, 1952, at the age of 34, Ted Williams was recalled to active duty for service in the Korean War. After eight weeks of refresher flight training and qualification in the F9F Panther jet at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, he was assigned to VMF-311, Marine Aircraft Group 33 (MAG-33), based at K-3 airfield in Pohang, Korea.

On February 16, 1953, Williams was part of a 35-plane strike package against a tank and infantry training school just south of Pyongyang, North Korea. During the mission a piece of flak knocked out his hydraulics and electrical systems, causing Williams to have to "limp" his plane back to K-13, an Air Force base close to the front lines. For his actions of this day he was awarded the Air Medal.

Features:
- Incredible detail
- Stand included
- Landing gear up or down
- Opening front and rear canopies
- Folding wings

Pitch or launch a strike here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_Grumman_F9F_5_Panthers_VMF_311_HA7206 _p/hm0316.htm


Last up this week is 1:72 scale Corgi - The Aviation Archive - Military Airpower Panavia Tornado GR.4, No.12 Sqn. RAF Special 90th Anniversary Scheme, Lossiemouth, Moray, Scotland--from Troy's Toys for $29.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=AA33609&image=0

You can score one here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=AA33609

[KG_Jag]

There are a number of Labor Day sales and some of them have deals worth featuring this week.

First up is the Forces of Valor 1:32 scale early World War II German Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. B from Wartoyz for $32.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/fv81016-sturmgeschutz-iii-ausf-b-450.jpg

The Sturmgeschutz III was a German assault gun and tank destroyer. The simplicity, low cost, and short time to manufacture were definitive advantages that led to large production numbers during the early years of WWII, and the Sturmgeschutz III was Germany's most produced armored fighting vehicle of the war.

Built on the chassis of the Panzer III tank, the StuG III was designed to keep up with advancing infantry units so it could be used to destroy enemy bunkers and other fortifications. Later versions were equipped with high-velocity guns and were used very effectively as tank destroyers.

This 1:32 scale version of the StuG III Ausf. B depicts the vehicle as seen on the Eastern Front in 1941.

This die-cast German Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. B is part of Forces Of Valor's Enthusiast Edition series, which is the extremely detailed version of this vehicle. The 1:32 scale die cast metal vehicle is approximately 6.5 inches long and has a gun barrel that raises and lowers, hatches that open and close, and a rolling tank suspension. It comes complete with a vehicle commander figure!

Achtung--here it is heading east:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/FV81016


Next up is another German 1:32 scale AFV. This one is a 21st Century Marder III from Bad Cat for $16.22.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4036881 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3472371)
http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3632535 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3472371)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3786044 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3636563)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3945983 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3789362)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4060021 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_3949442)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4219952 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4062878)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4335138 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4223724)http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4498458 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2122_4337928)

1:32 scale plastic model tank by 21st Century Toys. German Sd.Kfz. 139 Marder III Tank Destroyer Green & Black Two-Tone Camouflage. Prepainted and assembled, ready for display.

Length 7 inches

The Marder III Self-Propelled Gun was a highly effective �Tank Destroyer� for Germany through the early and middle stages of WWII. Based on the chassis of the 38(t), the Marder featured an open crew compartment equipped with a PAK-40 75mm Anti-Tank Gun. This 1:32 Scale Model features all the incredible detail you have come to expect to be found on 21st Century Toys products including working tracks and opening/closing driver’s hatch. Plus, the crew compartment takes the phrase “Attention to Detail� to a new level altogether, featuring highly-detailed shells, ammunitions racks and radio consoles as well as a superbly finished PAK-40/3 that accurately traverses and elevates. Made of high-quality ABS plastic, no figures included.

Get one here:

http://www.badcattoys.com/maiii121fcof.html


We have three planes featured this week. The first is the oldest and the biggest--a 1:32 scale Corgi Hawker Sea Hurricane 1B - No. 880 SQ. Fleet Air Arm, HMS Indomitable, Indian Ocean. You can land this Sea Hurri in your collection from 3000toys for $60.00.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/AA35504.jpg

Restoration started in earnest in February 1986, and led to the first flight of the world's only Sea Hurricane 1B in the hands of pilot Andy Sephton on September 16, 1995.

Follow the ball to here:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGIAA35504


Also from the UK, we next feature the much more modern Avro Arrow. This one is made by Hobby Master and Pete's has this 1:72 scale bird with free shipping for $72.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/CWH001.JPG

#203 complete with the dayglo markings. Limited run of 3,000 Worldwide. Note: This Is Not Hobby Master Tooling but has the quality like Hobby Master & Century Wings.

Find her here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=CWH001#item


Last to take off this week is the Witty 1:72 scale WI7200601 F-15C Eagle Israeli Air-force Kohav Hatsafon from Great Models for $25.15.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Witty/WI7200601.JPG

Beautifully Die-Cast pre-painted, ready to display. Includes stand for flight display.

Only a few are left, so act quickly by starting here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=WI7200601

[KG_Jag]

9/11--plus nine years and one day...

In honor of America, our first two picks are U.S. birds of the 1940's.

The first is the 1:48 scale Eagles International P-51 (C?) Mustang "Ding Hao" from Crossroads for $49.99.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-94511236631939_2121_15456505

Maj. James Howard 356th Fighter Squadron 354th Fighter Group 9th Air Force Congressional Medal of Honor winner. 12.3 aerial victories.

Approximately 9.5" Wingspan.

Better grab all the EI's you don't have before they all fly away; start here:


http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/e3.html


Our second pick on this 9th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks is the 1:72 scale SkyMax Models F8F-1B Bearcat Blue Angels, 1946 from the Monkey Depot's sale pages for $20.31.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/SM0002-2.jpg

F8F-1B Bearcat Blue Angels, 1946

Description: Designed for the interceptor fighter role, the design team's aim was to create the smallest, lightest fighter that could fit around the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engine (carried over from the F6F Hellcat). Compared to its predecessor, the Bearcat was 20% lighter, had a 30% better rate of climb and was 50 mph (80 km/h) faster. It was also considerably smaller in size, as it was designed to be operated from small escort aircraft carriers, something the big Hellcat rarely did.

Its capability for aerobatic performance is illustrated by its selection for the Navy's elite Blue Angels in 1946, who flew it until the team was temporarily disbanded in 1950 (during the Korean War).

Description:
-Incredible detail
-Stand included
-Landing gear can be displayed up or down

The airshow begins here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/SkyMax_Models_F8F_1B_Bearcat_Blue_Angels_SM1003_p/sm0002.htm


Both of our armor picks are Dragon 1:35 scale German World War II war wagons. First up from Big Bad Toy Store for only $38.24 is the Pz.Kpfw. VI Ausf. E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I Initial Production.

http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/images/products/in/large/DRG10082.jpg

Cool off to the winter camo here:

http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=DRG10082&mode=retail&picture=in


Next up is the winter camo version of the Elephant from J-P Hobbies for $39.95.

http://j-p-hobbies.com/prodimages/dml_61026.jpg


DML 1/35 Scale #61026 Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant 2./s.Pz.Abt.653, Poland 1944 (White Wash Version) w/Zimmerit

Features:

- Open window display packaging

Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/35 scale - Fully accurate mold - Fully assembled - Historically accurate markings and insignia - Includes protective display case

Try to stop the Russians--at about the middle fo this page:

http://j-p-hobbies.com/products.asp?cat=236


Last up is some 1:35 scale German World War II metal soldiers from W. Britain by way of Treefrog Treasure's sale page--for just $20.00. They are the German Wehrmacht Firing Set #1.

http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/images/17875.jpg

Get them here before they retreat from the sale page:

http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/detail.aspx?ID=2156

[KG_Jag]

I start this week's edition with a thanks to all of you who stop by and visit this little corner of the KG website. For the first time ever we are now averaging over 200 visits per week. That's more than 10 times the traffic we had in the early days. So again--thank you and feel free to invite your friends to stop by too.

Most of our picks this week will have appeal to those on a diecast budget during these tough times. First up is the 1:72 scale Admiral Panzer III L--North Africa from Military Issue for $9.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0095505&size=large

Replicating a Panzerkampfwagen III (Sd.Kfz.141) tank from the 1942 North Africa campaign, this 1/72 scale, die cast model features a rotating turret and an elevating gun, separately applied plastic detail parts such as spare wheels and a tow cable, an authentic desert camouflage scheme with 15th Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 3½" long and arrives ready to display in the included case.

Check out its dust trail here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10298&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Non-Aviation


Also from North Africa, you second selection this week is the EDG 1:43 scale Sahariana Italy 1942 from The Toy HQ for $13.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/IXE01521_196_EDG_Sahariana.jpg

Fully assembled and ready to display die-cast model. Italian utility vehicle in desert tan camouflage, includes plastic display case. Length about 4 inches.

Bring some Chianti and assemble here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_58_134&products_id=2714&osCsid=78c27833b27e34e66fb1a3794b713b48


For those with a little more in the bank, our next selection is a 1:72 scale EE Canberra B.2 Model, 90 Group, RAF, 1970 - Corgi AA34703. Showcase Toys has it on sale for $59.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2120_10816586

Corgi Limited Edition Diecast Model

English Electric Canberra B.2 (B-57) - WH911, 98 Sqn., No. 90 (Signals) Group, RAF Cottesmore, England, 1970

1:72 scale. Wingspan: 10.75" (27.3 cm)

The Canberra was Britain’s first jet bomber, the prototype making its maiden flight on 13th May 1949 from Warton, Lancs., powered by two 6,000 pound (2722 kg) thrust Avon R.A.2 turbojets. The first production English Electric Canberra delivered to the RAF was a B.Mk.2 on May 25, 1951

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate aircraft markings and landing gear with rubber tires. They can be displayed with the landing gear down or 'in flight' on the included stand.

Tea time be damned--click here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa34703-canberra-raf.html


Last in the air this week is the 1:72 scale Gemini Aces Spitfire Raf MK.IX-- Gabreski from The Airplane Shop for $18.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/ga1003.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=7)

Get high here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=GEMACE&id=7


Our first extra pick this week takes to the beach by way of the ocean. It is the Forces of Valor 1:72 scale U.S. LCM3 (Landing Craft, Mark III) Landing Craft from Wartoyz for $21.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/fv85042-lcm3-landing-craft-450.jpg

The U.S. LCM3 (Landing Craft, Mark III) Landing Craft was used to carry troops, vehicles, and cargo to beach heads during World War II. They were first used at Tarawa in 1943, and were later used in the other island hopping operations across the Pacific. They were also used in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters during World War II, and then later during the Korean War.

The LCM3 had a crew of 4 and could hold either 60 troops, one 30 ton tank, or 30 tons of cargo. It was armed with two .50 caliber machine guns and had a top speed of eight knots.

This U.S. LCM3 Landing Craft is part of Forces Of Valor's Enthusiast Edition series, which is the extremely detailed version of this vehicle. The 1:72 scale die cast metal landing craft is part of the Battle Extreme series, and approximately 9 inches long. It comes complete with a captain figure, 2 soldiers, cross traps, plus an oil can!

Get ready to hit the beach here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/FV85242

Our last stop is another W. Britain 1:32 scale soldier set from Treefrog Treasures. This one features two German World War I troopers. Priced at just $19.00, it is the German 84th Infanterie Regiment von Manstein Advancing Set #3.

http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/images/17899.jpg

Bring the brats and beer here:

http://www.treefrogtreasures.com/detail.aspx?ID=2129

[KG_Jag]

For our last time around in September, we'll start with a very limited issue Dragon 1:72 scale StuG III, featuring Bodo Spranzs marking. This is a special issue from the 2008 Dragon Expo and Great Models has it for $17.50.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR60368.JPG

Join the captain here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR60368


Our second AFV pick takes us into the next decade and to cold Korea. Also in the 1:72 scale is the Hobby Master M46 Patton Chorwon 1953 1/72 (HG3703). The Monkey Depot is holding one for you, if you're ready to pony up the $14.53.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0240-2.jpg

M46 Patton City of Chorwon 1953, Unknown Unit 1/72

Description: The M46 Patton tank was named after US General George S. Patton Jr. It basically was an improved M26 Pershing and was meant to replace the M26 and M4 Sherman. 800 of the M26s were converted to M46s and received a new more powerful engine and transmission with rearward-facing fender mounted mufflers and a main gun with a bore evacuator. The M46s made up 15% of the tank force in Korea and proved superior to its T34/85 counterparts.

Description:
- Includes display case
- Turret rotates

Get up and ride here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_M46_Patton_Chorwon_1953_HG3703_p/hm0240.htm


First in the air this week is GMP 1:35 scale Kittyhawk III, RAF, No. 112-- Sqn., Flt. Sgt. K.C. Warburton, shot down during Battle of Rieti Airfield,
April 7, 1944--Mediterranean Theatre. The GMP P-40's (and P-51's) are very difficult to find these days. At $129.99 from On Mark, they are twice or more the price at which you could pick them up on sale a few years ago. But that was then and this is now. Free shipping helps. The planes are still among the finest you can add to your collection.

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/images/g/g3502704/g3502704.jpg

So if you are ready, willing and able to put your wallet into a dive, click here and look about 3/4ths down the page:

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/surplus_bin.php


Our next selection is once again from the sale at Great Models. It is a Dragon 1:72 scale F-15E™ Strike Eagle, 494th TFS, 48th FW, "Tiger Meet" 1998 for just $19.45.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50075.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

1/72 F-15E™ Strike Eagle, 494th TFS, 48th FW, "Tiger Meet" 1998

This title represents an F-15E from 494 FS at RAF Lakenheath. This scale model is beautifully enveloped in its unique Tiger Meet markings, including tiger stripes on the lower fuselage, and a tiger on the tail.

Main Features:
- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Removable Weapons
- Detailed Cockpits
- Opening Canopy
- Moving Wing Flaps
- Pre-assembled
- Display In Flight or In Landing Mode
- Approximate dimensions: 10.6"L x 7.1"W x 3.1"H

About this title
“Tiger Meets” were first held in 1962, and have since evolved into a first-class unofficial NATO air force exercise where participants fly all manner of combined missions. Flight crews are given the opportunity to interact with those of other nations as they carry out a wide spectrum of training.

About the F-15E Strike Eagle:
The Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas) F-15 Eagle is an American-built, all-weather, extremely maneuverable, tactical fighter designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat. It entered service in July of 1972.
A derivative of the aircraft is the F-15E Strike Eagle, a highly successful all-weather strike fighter which entered service in 1988.

The F-15C/D model is being replaced by the F/A-22 Raptor. The fate of the F-15E is yet unknown but as the airframes are relatively recent, will likely remain in the U.S. inventory for some years to come.

Maybe you can find Tony here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRW50075


We'll end this week with a couple of excellent buys on metal soldiers from Michigan Toy Soldier and Del Prado in the 1:32 scale.

For just $6.99 a piece, if you have signed up to be a preferred customer--or $9.99 if it's not worth your trouble--they offer the Timurid Tarkhan c. 1400.

http://www.delpradousa.com/series-4-medieval/DEL-me21.jpg

Stay away from magnets and mount up here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-DEL-ME21-Timurid_Tarkhan_c_1400.html


For the same price(s) you can go forward about 400 years and opt for the Trumpeter, 7th Uhlans, Austrian Cavalry c. 1855.

http://www.delpradousa.com/series-9-cavalry-ages/DEL-CBH021.jpg

Maybe you'll find yourself in south Russia by clicking here:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-DEL-CBH021-Trumpeter_7th_Uhlans_Austrian_Cavalry_c_1855.html

[KG_Jag]

October seems to have arrived very suddenly, just has the end of regular baseball season. With that in mind, we'll try to hit a few homeruns this week.

First up is the now rarely seen Corgi 1:43 scale US Army Dodge Weapons Carrier. Winkie's still has it for $24.99.

http://www.winkies.com/mmWINKIES/Images/480x480/CG51703.jpg

The rugged two ton 4x4 Weapons Carrie was an Army workhorse in both World War II and with some modifications during the Korean war as well.

Get aboard here:

http://www.winkies.com/winkies/itemdesc.asp?ic=CG51703&eq=&Tp=


Along the same line--but on the other side of the line, we next feature the 1:32 scale 21st Century German Sd.Kfz. 4 Halftrack - Desert Camo
from Great Models for $16.30.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/21stcentury/TFB22054.JPG

Grab one of the last couple left here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=TFB22054


Our third pick is a Dragon 1:72 scale T-34/76 Mod. 1942 Winter Paint Scheme, Kharkov, 1943 from Troy's Toys for $9.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=60237&image=0

Never mind what Dragon wants for their latest releases, click here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=60237


Time to head for the clouds. Our first stop will be the Zion Antique Mall and Toy Mart, where they have the Corgi 1:72 scale P-38J Droop Snoot Lightning nicknamed "Eze Does It" after Herschel F. Ezell for $34.95.

http://www.zionantiquemall.com/store/media/AA36602.jpg

The 20th FGs Droop Snoop (42-67450) was nicknamed "Eze Does It" after Herschel F. Ezell, who was assigned to the 20th FG on April 28, 1944, following a complete tour of 25 missions as a bombardier on B-17 Flying Fortresses with the 306th Bomb Group. On May 14 he was made Group Personal Equipment Officer, but his primary reason for being assigned to the 20th FG was as group bombardier on Droop Snoop bombing missions. He flew 10 of these before being returned to the states on August 10, 1944. He was awarded the Air Medal with 4 clusters.


Vector about 3/5ths down this page:


http://www.zionantiquemall.com/page134/


Last off the deck this week is the Dragon 1:144 scale B-17F-25 Flying Fortress "The Duchess" 358th BS, 1944 from First Hobby for $26.99.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW51003.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

1/144 B-17F-25 Flying Fortress "The Duchess" 358th Bomber Squadron, 1944 ~ 1st B-17 in Dragon Warbirds

Main Features:
- Fully detailed 1/144 B-17 mold approved by Boeing
- Diecast metal fuselage and wings
- Bomb bay door can be positioned as open or closed
- Rotating propellers
- Accurate engraved panel lines
- Historically accurate markings
- Pre-assembled

About the B-17F-25 Flying Fortress:

This B-17F-25 model is christened “The Duchess�, as flown by the 358th Bomb Squadron of the USAF in 1944. The bomber’s fuselage and wings are made from die cast metal to add a sense of weight and realism, as well as for strength. The panel lines are delicately engraved, while machine gun turrets are reproduced to fire on enemy fighters, just like on the real plane. The landing gear is fully detailed, allowing the option of displaying the plane in either a taxiing or flying mode. A bombing mode is even possible, as the bomb doors can be displayed open when optional parts are used.

The B-17 was the first mass-produced, four-engine heavy bomber, and it flew countless raids against German and Japanese targets during WWII. The term “Flying Fortress� was coined by a reporter from the Seattle Times when a B-17 rolled out replete with its phalanx of machine gun installations. The B-17 was a tough bomber, though it was not until the advent of P-51 Mustang fighter escorts that it reached its full strategic potential.


She's 12 o'clock high here:


http://www.firsthobby.com/store1/Product.asp?ProductID=DML51003&SN=2010100314301810





For you Civil War buffs, we has a 1:32 scale Del Prado piece for each side by way of Michigan Toy Soldier. For the Rebs, we have “They Held Their Lines� – Private, 11th Mississippi Infantry Regiment 1861 for $6.50--if you sign up as a preferred customer ($12.99 if you don't).




http://www.delpradousa.com/series-6-acw/del-acw03.jpg

Here's the road south:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-DEL-GSC03-“They_Held_Their_Lines�_Private_11th_Mississip pi_Infantry_Regiment_1861.html


For Billy Yank, we feature Union Corporal, 1st US Cavalry for $9.99 if you sign up or $19.99 if you don't.

http://www.delpradousa.com/series-6-acw/DEL-GSC023.jpg

Lead your horse to water here;

http://www.michtoy.com/item-DEL-GSC23-Union_Corporal_1st_US_Cavalry.html

[KG_Jag]

1:32 scale will be featured this week for both of our armor picks. Up first is a Forces of Valor German Elefant (Italy, 1944) from the Enthusiast Edition Series from Hobbylinc for $47.29.

http://www.hobbylinc.com/icon/unx/unx80052.jpg

The Forces of Valor Combat Proven Machines Highly detailed assembled and pre-painted model Made of die-cast metal with plastic parts Tank tracks and wheels that roll Turrets and gun barrels that turn Hatches and access ports that open Authentic paint schemes & markings Includes realistic accessories This tank is very realistic and would be great in any layout or display.

The link is:

http://www.hobbylinc.com/htm/unx/unx80052.htm


From 21st Century by way of Great Models we present the British Sherman Firefly Vc with 17 Pounder in exchange for your $16.60.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/21stcentury/TFB22059S1.JPG


Surprise some German armor with this:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=TFB22059S1


Also from Great Models, we feature 1:72 scale Dragon Wings F4U-1D Corsair 'Day's Knights', VMF-312 for $18.65.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DR50127.JPG

High quality diecast metal, removable missiles, detailed cockpit, open/closed canopy, engraved panel lines, movable flight control surfaces and rotating propeller.

Your Whistling Death can be found here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRW50127


Last up for the week is the Hobby Master !:48 scale Spitfire Mk.XIVe Belgian Air Force, 1950's. The Monkey Depot has them for just $33.16.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0187-2.jpg

Spitfire Mk.XIVe Ecole de Chasse at Coxyde, Belgian Air Force, 1950's

Description: In November 1950 former RAF Mk. XIVe Spitfire NH-904 was acquired by the Belgium military and marked as B2-K/SG-108. In April 1951 it was transferred to Belgium Fighters’ School at Koksijde (Coxyde in French) and remarked IQ-V/SG-108. It was retired in 1954, sold for scrap in 1957. The dealer chopped the wings off and placed the fuselage on his shop roof. Bought in 1966 and brought to the UK it received the wings from Mk. XIVc RM694. In 1968 purchased for the film “Battle of Britain�. Next owners were Jeff Hawks (1969-71), Sir Roberts (1971-79), Spencer Flack (1979-88) painted red and white registered as “G-FIRE�. Planes of Fame East, Minnesota (1988-1991) as “N8118J�, Robert Pond, Minnesota (1991-1997) as “N1148P�, Palm Springs Air Museum (1997 to present) marked as “W2-P�.

Features:
-Incredible detail
-Stand included
-Opening canopy
-Landing gear can be displayed up or down


Keep the Cold War from getting hot by patrolling here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_Spitfire_Mk_XIVe_Belgian_HA7108_p/hm0187.htm

[KG_Jag]

The real picks of this week are my dad's heart doctors here in Austin. I pray that 3 to 5 years from now other 85 year old patients will retain the same ability to receive top notch life saving care that we experienced in Austin this week. Here are four more picks of a different type.

First from Dragon and Great Models is the 1:72 scale HMMWV M1114 1-36 Infantry, 1st Armored Division for $7.10.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR60059.JPG

Baghdad 2004 w/.50 cal M2 and with a 0.50-cal M2 & LVOSS launchers, Fully assembled and pre-painted, display case, roof mounted 0.50 cal M2, Detailed LVOSS launchers mounted on all four corners of the vehicle.

Lock in here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR60059


Next we have the 1:48 scale Hobby Master JS-2 heavy tank--after being captured from the Soviets by the Germans. Wartoyz has it for the five finger discount of $23.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/hg1105-js2-prey-450.jpg

The Russian JS-2 Heavy Tank was equipped with thick armor and a 122mm A-19 gun that could destroy German Tiger and Panther tanks. It entered service in early 1944, and was used in the drive to Berlin. Often used as "breakthrough tanks", they used their large guns to destroy bunkers, dug-in weapons, and buildings.

This 1:48 scale die-cast Russian JS-2 heavy tank depicts "Prey Tank" tank as it was seen during World War II. It features German markings showing a JS-2 that has been captured by the Germans.

This Russian JS-2 heavy tank is part of Hobby Master's Ground Power series. The 1:48 scale die-cast metal vehicle is approximately 5.5 inches long (8.5 inches long with gun barrel), and has a turret that rotates and a gun barrel that raises and lowers.

This item has been 'retired' by Hobby Master.

Change sides here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/HM-HG1105


Going to the air are two 1:48 scale Carousel 1 birds on one of their last flights for bargain prices. First in the air is the F4F-3 Wildcat, flown by
Butch O'Hare, VMF-211, USS Lexington, for only $34.95 from Historic Aviation.



http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0093317&size=large

This limited edition, 1/48 scale, die cast model features engraved panel lines and simulated rivets; a detailed cockpit with a removable canopy and a pilot figure; optional-position landing gear; a rotating propeller; the 1942 VMF-211 markings of Edward "Butch" O'Hare, who received a Medal of Honor for single-handedly defending the USS Lexington against a squadron of Japanese "Betty" bombers; a simulated carrier deck display base; and more. 9½" wingspan; arrives ready to display.

Last call to land this bird on your deck:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12742&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=U.S.%20Naval%20Fighters


Racers Den features the FW-190D "Dora-13" JG26, Major Frank Gotz for even a bit less at $32.95.

http://www.racersdeninc.com/v/vspfiles/photos/7143-2.jpg

Grab this best in class here:

http://www.racersdeninc.com/product_p/7143.htm

[KG_Jag]

Our first pick this week is an outstanding deal on a 1:35 scale Figarti Helping Hand - SAS Soldier gets Help on to a Jeep - from Hobby Bunker for $39.99.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/B4003A.jpg


This item is limited to 100 sets. Helping Hand continues the saga of the Special Air Service as they raid deep behind German Lines.

Get in quick here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=14327 (http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=14327)


Next up is the Tamiya 1/48 scale Stug III G 5th Pz.Abt. - Finished 25th P.G. Division from Micro Macro Mundo for $46.92.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26522.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26522)

Following the release of the Sturmgeshutz III Ausf.B, Tamiya now adds this later variation of one of the most successful tank destroyers in WWII to our 1/48 Military Miniature Collection.

About the Sturmgeshutz III Ausf.G:

The most numerous version of the StuG III, over 7800 type G guns were produced between December 1942 and April 1945. The early G-type had a welded-type gun mantlet, while an 80mm thick cast Saukopf gun mantlet was added in February 1944. The superstructure was redesigned and an MG42 machine gun with shield, commander's vision cupola and smoke dischargers were also added. Armed with a more powerful, long barreled 75mm L/48 gun, the Ausf.G was assigned the role of a tank destroyer rather than that of an assault gun. This model depicts a StuG III that served with the 5th Pz. Abt., 25th Panzer-Grenadier Division, which was almost destroyed in an encirclement near Minsk but was later reformed to continue the defense of the Western Front.

About the model--

Professionally finished model of the Sturmgeschutz III Ausf.G.
Die-cast lower hull for extra weight and enhanced realism.
Accurately pre-painted and decals pre-applied with realistic weathering effects.

Includes an individually-numbered display stand with nameplate

Get into action here:

http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26522


Both our airplane selections are 1:48 scale Carousel 1 birds.

The first is the now very difficult to find, especially at a decent price, Fw190D-9 Gerhard Barkhorn, JG 6 1945 from Crossroads at $49.99.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-94511236631939_2129_23765535

Get your Butcher Bird here:

http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/ca17.html (http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/ca17.html)


Our second pick from the fantastic but discontinued Carousel 1 warbirds is the P-36A Hawk, USAAC 15th PG, 1939 for $22.45 from Fantastic Flyers.

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/images/6122a.jpg (http://www.fantasticflyers.com/p36a-hawk-usaac-15th-1939-6122-p-2079.html)

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/images/pixel_trans.gif Carousel 1 Diecast Model

Curtiss P-36A Hawk
USAAC 15th PG, 27th PS
Major Willis TAYLOR, Squadron Commander
Cleveland Airport, Cleveland, OH
Cleveland Air Races September 1939
6122 - 1:48 Scale
Approximate Length: 7"
Approximate Wingspan: 9.25"
(Landing gear and other details included but not shown in pictures)

Each Fully Assembled and Painted Model features:

Assembled Diecast Model
Removable Pilot Figure
Cockpit Detail
Full cockpit detail
Glazed instruments
Retractable or Extended Landing Gear
NO Exposed screws
About this Aircraft:

The 27th Fighter Squadron "Fighting Eagles" is the oldest in the US Air Force, formed in 1917. It claims Frank Luke, who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor during WW1. During the 1930's, the 27th Pursuit Squadron was the premier pursuit unit in the Army Air Corps, serving the same sort of role as the modern "Thunderbirds" alongside normal duties. Beginning in 1929, the Cleveland National Air Races had become the most prestigious aviation event in the world, with single-day crowds exceeding 100,000. In 1939, the 27th converted to the P-36, the hottest plane in the American arsenal, and was selected to represent the Army Air Corps at Cleveland. Based at Michigan's Selfridge Field, the squadron focused on preparation and practice for this event. Major Willis Taylor, commanding officer of the 27th, is credited with the idea of painting the squadron's P-36's in a variety of camouflage patterns without national insignia, using the new water-based camouflage paint colors. Crew chiefs were encouraged to use their imaginations devising patterns, and none of the squadron's P-36's used the same scheme, although colors were shared. Colors included sand, dark green, light gray, dark blue, dark olive drab, and neutral gray, most aircraft using three or four colors. Faded or over-exposed color photos of these planes have been published in which light gray looks white and sand appears orange. The significance of the frog emblem on Taylor's left hand wing "bucket" for shell casings is a mystery. At the time, American military aircraft were painted in bright colors and the eighteen camouflaged P-36's created a sensation at Cleveland. Major Taylor was less familiar with the aerial routines, because he had been posted to Air Corps Tactical School at Maxwell Field, Alabama during the summer. During the 1 September 1939 performance, he turned the wrong way at the bottom of a dive over the grandstand, nearly causing a catastrophic collision. But public attention was distracted by the much larger aviation demonstration that the German Luftwaffe staged over Poland earlier that day. The Cleveland Air Races were finished after 1949, when a P-51 stalled and crashed into a nearby house, killing a mother and child-the first non-participant fatalities. The 27th Fighter Squadron was the first to convert to P-38's and served with distinction in the Mediterranean theater during WW2. Recently, the 27th was the first squadron to convert to the F-22.

The race begins here:

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/p36a-hawk-usaac-15th-1939-6122-p-2079.html

[KG_Jag]

Happy Halloween--it's time to scare you with the picks for this week.

First up from Hobby Master by way of the Monkey Depot is the 1:72 scale KV-1 (Model 1940) for $13.53.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0058-2.jpg

Description: The KV-1 (M1941) early models came with a welded turret and eventually a cast turret with rounded corners. Both models came with 90mm thick hulls and extra 40mm plates bolted to the front and sides. This gave a total of up to 130mm front hull and the turret now was 92 - 110mm thick. All this extra armor increased the weight by 2 tons and ended up costing them speed and agility. The M1941 model now had more machine guns and a new main cannon.

The 124th Guard Tank Brigade was created in 1941 from what was left of the 24th Tank Division. One notable action by the 124th was when Jr. Lt. Fyodor Fomin's KV-1 became disabled in a swamp near Leningrad. The area was behind enemy lines and the crew fought for six consecutive days while repairing the tank. Not only did they manage to save their own vehicle but also they towed a damaged tank to Soviet lines. Fomin received a special note and became a Hero of the Soviet Union.

Surprise them at Oktoberfest by showing up here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_KV_1_Model_1940_HG3003_p/hm0058.htm


For those with a little more coin, we next feature the 1:35 scale Minichamps PANZERKAMPFWAGEN V JAGDPANTHER SCHW.HEERES PANZER JAGDABT.553 'FRANCE' 1944 that Toys for Collectors has for you, if you have the $89.95.

http://www.tfcusa.com/catalog/images/350019024_N.jpg

Get your alternative ride to the beer tent here:

http://www.tfcusa.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=1_17&products_id=3102&osCsid=93da894df1e2172c0e3478a8dfd6cf02


For your friends of the flyboys, we have the 1:72 scale Corgi Hurricane MkII (AA32013)--Russia, September '41. The Drop Zone will drop one on you for $26.95.

http://www.thedzd.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/images/Corgi/AA32013_Hurricane.jpg&lr=t&bw=250&bh=200 (http://www.thedzd.com/store/picturepopup.aspx?id=2540)

Lend lease one here:

http://www.thedzd.com/store/p/261-Corgi-Hurricane-MkII.aspx


Flying last in the formation is the 1:72 scale Dragon (DRW50145) F-15D Eagle 60th TFS, 33rd RFW 'Fighting Crows' (Eglin AFB) from Great Models, priced at $25.15.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DR50145.JPG


Features include: Removable Weapons, Detailed Cockpits, Opening Canopies, Moving Wing Flaps, Pre-assembled and display in Flight or In Landing Mode.

The eagle has landed here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRW50145


Last this week, we feature the Oryon 1:35 scale Panzergrenadier Division "Grossdeutschland " from Military Issue for just $19.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500621&size=large


Meticulously detailed and painted by hand, these 1/35 scale metal figures representing four "Grossdeutschland" Division soldiers are historically accurate right down to their realistic weapons and authentic insignia. Perfect for display or for adding to a World War II diorama, each figure measures approximately 2" tall.

Blitz over here to get the set:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10440&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Units

[KG_Jag]

Both of our armor selections this week are 1:72 scale Hobby Master modern(ish) tanks. First up is the Centurion Mk 6 British Army (HG3501) from JT's for $14.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_centurion_3501.jpg

THE HG3501 WAS THE FIRST CENTURION TANK DIECAST MODEL RELEASED BY HOBBY MASTER IN 1/72 SCALE.

• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2008

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.


About the British Centurion BMT (Main Battle Tank):

The Centurion was the primary British Main Battle Tank of the immediate post-war era, and has proven itself be one of the most successful tank designs of all time, mainly due to its thick armor, adaptability of its chassis to other roles, and numerous upgrades. Designed during the Second World War, it served in Europe, but arrived several months too late for combat. It went on to provide excellent service during the Korean War where it outperformed both US and Soviet designs by a wide margin. It then further went on to see service with Australian forces in the Vietnam war, mostly in the support role. It would go on to be one of the most widely used tank designs, equipping armies around the world, with small numbers still in service until the 1990's. As recently as the 2006 Israel-Lebanon conflict, the Israel Defense Forces still employed heavily modified Centurions, as armored personnel carriers and combat engineering vehicles.

The Centurion Mk. I, the first of 13 variations was delivered to the British Army in 1949 with a 17-pound gun. The Mk. 3 went to war in Korea with a 20-pound main gun. After Korea came a NATO standardization program for ammunition so the 7.92mm coaxial machine gun was changed to 7.62mm and a bore evacuator installed on the main gun and it was re-designated Mk. 5.

The next improvement was replacing the main gun with an L7 105mm and an additional 2-inch armored plate on the front and this became the Mk. 6.

At the time of development and for many years, the British military tank philosophy was well armed and very well armored. Speed wasn’t of the essence so the top speed of 34 km/h wasn’t a big concern. This would be their thinking until the arrival of the Challenger that would offer all 3 components. The British were the main customers for the Centurion, but out of the 4,423 manufactured over 2,500 were sold abroad to over 16 countries.

Brew a powerful cup of tea here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-centurion-british-army-hg3501-p-359.html


On the other side, albeit maybe a bit later, was the T-55 Czech Army from Monkey Depot for $15.56.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/HM0252-2.jpg

T-55 Czech Army

Description: The T-55 is a very mobile chassis with a low profile and with external fuel tanks has great endurance. All this is topped off with a high-velocity gun with 43 rounds available. However the low profile means cramped crew compartment and a slow rate of fire for the gun. The external fuel tanks make the unit vulnerable and the armor is thin compared to western standards. The T-54/55 is the most produced tank in history and has served with over 40 countries. It is the AK47 of tanks, inexpensive and everyone has one.

Description:
- Includes display case
- Turret rotates


Check it out here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Master_T_55_Czech_Army_HG3310_p/hm0252.htm


Above the tanks, we pick the Dragon 1:72 scale F/A-18E Super Hornet VFA-31 "Tomcatters" from 3000Toys for $24.95.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/DRAGON/50136.jpg

High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Detailed Cockpits
- Pre-assembled

The “Tomcatters” is a U.S. Navy strike fighter squadron based at NAS Oceana. This squadron, VFA-31, flies the F/A-18E Super Hornet exclusively. Founded on 1 July 1935 as VF-1B “Shooting Stars”, the squadron has an illustrious history. Most recently it participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom while aboard USS Abraham Lincoln where it flew 585 sorties. At the time, the “Tomcatters” was flying F-14D Tomcats. The unit’s farewell to its Tomcats occurred in September 2006 during the “Tomcat Sunset”. It was the Navy’s last operational Tomcat squadron, and this will be reflected for time immemorial by their squadron name – “Tomcatters”! After this emotional farewell, VFA-31 began its transition to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, and today the “Fighting 31” specializes in night fighting. This is summed up in their motto of “We get ours at night”.

Dragon Warbirds is offering a fine 1/72 scale die-cast model of an F/A-18E Super Hornet from VFA-31. The model is beautifully detailed, capturing the sleek and powerful stance of this potent U.S. military aircraft. The model bears all the appropriate markings of this unit including the “AJ” tail code, and a cartoon impression of Felix the Cat running with a spherical bomb in his paws. FA-31 has staked its place in history by being the last Tomcat squadron.


Cat on over here:


http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=DRAGON50136



Last off the runway this week is the Corgi 1:72 scale Corgi Blenheim Mk IF RAF No.29 Sqn, RAF Digby, England, June 1940 from The Drop Zone for $54.95.


http://www.thedzd.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/images/Corgi/AA38402.jpg&lr=t&bw=700&bh=700


Land one here:


http://www.thedzd.com/store/p/154-Corgi-Blenheim-Mk-IF-RAF-No-29-Sqn-RAF-Digby-England-June-1940.aspx





This week we feature another set of 1:35 scale Oryon Soldiers from Military Issue for just $19.95.

This time it's a group of four 1/35 scale, hand painted metal figures replicates the elite German paratroopers of the 1st Fallschirmjaeger Division, which was formed in 1938 as the 7th Flieger (Air Division) and fought in the Battle of Crete in 1941 - the first mainly airborne invasion in history. Each figure measures approximately 2" tall.


http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500619&size=large


Drop them here:


http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=8407&product=Figures&category=air&subcategory=Units

[KG_Jag]

For the week immediately following Veterans Day, we first feature the 1:32 scale Figarti LVT(A)-4 with 75mm Howitzer and 2 Figures--WWII Pacific Theatre - US Marines Limited Edition of 100 Pieces - from Hobby Bunker for $64.50.


http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/A3222P%20(Medium).jpg

Hit the beach here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=14320


If your budget is small, the Dragon 1:72 scale M4A4 Sherman
Free French Army 1944 for $9.00 from On Mark International might be just your ticket.

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/images/6/60284/60284.jpg

It's the first item on this page:

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/dragon/dragon_mil_veh.php


While we're on the subject of the French, our next selection is the Corgi 1:48 scale Spad XIIIC-1 flown by Georges Guynemer - the first French ace to compile 50 victories in World War I - of the French Air Service Escadrille SPA.3 in 1917. Historic Aviation has it on sale for just $26.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091799&size=large

Replicating the SPAD XIII flown by Georges Guynemer - the first French ace to compile 50 victories in World War I - of the French Air Service Escadrille SPA.3 in 1917, this limited edition, 1/48 scale die cast model features simulated fabric surfaces, real wire bracing, a detailed radiator and a rotating propeller, a figure of Guynemer in the cockpit, two forward-firing Vickers machine guns, authentic markings including Guynemer-inspired Les Cigognes (The Storks) artwork on the fuselage, and more. 6¾" wingspan; arrives ready to display on the included stand.

Find this French Knight of the air here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12214&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=WWI


Moving forward more than a handful of decades, our next pick is the 1:72 scale Hobby Master U.S. F-100D Super Sabre - Lt. Col. Harold Comstock - from Wartoyz for $29.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/ha2101-f100D-super-sabre-450.jpg

The F-100 Super Sabre was designed as a higher performance successor to the F-86 air superiority fighter. The F-100D was a single seat fighter bomber and incorporated many improvements over previous models, including a larger wing and tail fin and advanced avionics. The F-100 was the first U.S. fighter capable of attaining supersonic speed in level flight. The F-100D was used extensively during the Vietnam War for close air support and ground attacks.

This highly detailed 1:72 scale version of the USAF F-100D Super Sabre depicts the aircraft flown by Lt. Col. Harold Elwood 'Bunny' Comstock, commander of the 481st TFS, 27th FW, as it was seen over Tan Son Nhut during 1965.

This U.S. F-100D Super Sabre is part of Hobby Master's Air Power Series. The 1:72 scale die cast metal vehicle is approximately 8.5 inches long with a 6.5 inch wingspan, and includes features such as detailed graphics, an opening canopy, and an interchangeable undercarriage. The aircraft also comes with a display stand.

The flight line is here:


http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/HM-HA2101


Our "bonus" aircraft pick this week is from the GoMotorBids daily "Get It Now" page. These selections are available for 24 hours each day (5 p.m. until the next 5 p.m.--quantities permitting). So the following is available for $29.99 until 5 p.m. on Monday: Carousel 1 1/48 Maj. Willis Taylor (Squadron Commander) P-36C Hawk: 27th Pursuit Squadron, 15th Pursuit Group, Cleveland National Air Races, September 1939. Watch the shipping costs for a single item.

http://www.gomotorbids.com/productimagecache/9cf8fd590d9acfab36e523a724edeb9c.jpg (http://javascript<b></b>:;)



The 27th Fighter Squadron "Fighting Eagles" is the oldest in the US Air Force, formed in 1917. It claims Frank Luke, who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor during WW1. During the 1930's, the 27th Pursuit Squadron was the premier pursuit unit in the Army Air Corps, serving the same sort of role as the modern "Thunderbirds" alongside normal duties. Beginning in 1929, the Cleveland National Air Races had become the most prestigious aviation event in the world, with single-day crowds exceeding 100,000. In 1939, the 27th converted to the P-36, the hottest plane in the American arsenal, and was selected to represent the Army Air Corps at Cleveland. Based at Michigan's Selfridge Field, the squadron focused on preparation and practice for this event.

Major Willis Taylor, commanding officer of the 27th, is credited with the idea of painting the squadron's P-36's in a variety of camouflage patterns without national insignia, using the new water-based camouflage paint colors. Crew chiefs were encouraged to use their imaginations devising patterns, and none of the squadron's P-36's used the same scheme, although colors were shared. Colors included sand, dark green, light gray, dark blue, dark olive drab, and neutral gray, most aircraft using three or four colors. Faded or over-exposed color photos of these planes have been published in which light gray looks white and sand appears orange. The significance of the frog emblem on Taylor's left hand wing "bucket" for shell casings is a mystery. At the time, American military aircraft were painted in bright colors and the eighteen camouflaged P-36's created a sensation at Cleveland.

Major Taylor was less familiar with the aerial routines, because he had been posted to Air Corps Tactical School at Maxwell Field, Alabama during the summer. During the 1 September 1939 performance, he turned the wrong way at the bottom of a dive over the grandstand, nearly causing a catastrophic collision. But public attention was distracted by the much larger aviation demonstration that the German Luftwaffe staged over Poland earlier that day. The Cleveland Air Races were finished after 1949, when a P-51 stalled and crashed into a nearby house, killing a mother and child-the first non-participant fatalities. The 27th Fighter Squadron was the first to convert to P-38's and served with distinction in the Mediterranean theater during WW2. Recently, the 27th was the first squadron to convert to the F-22.

Link:

http://www.gomotorbids.com/ItemDetail.cfm?Item_ID=856034&Product=Carousel-1-1-48-Maj-Willis-Taylor-Squadron-Commander-P-36C-Hawk-27th-Pursuit-Squadron-15th-Pursuit-Group-Cleveland-National-Air-Races-September-1939


Along the same lines, check in on Pete's daily specials.


Last up this week is the 1:35 Oryon four soldier--two for each side of the battle--Ardennes set. Military Issue has it for just $19.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500614&size=large
Representing the soldiers who fought in the decisive 1944 winter campaign at the Battle of the Bulge, and particularly at the siege of Bastogne, these 1/35 scale figures of the U.S. 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles and the German 26th Volksgrenadier Division are made of metal and individually painted by hand.

The road to Bastogne starts here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=722&product=Figures&category=air&subcategory=Units

[KG_Jag]

Happy Thanksgiving!

Both of our "armor" picks this week come in the 1:35 scale size. The first is the unusual Pit-Road IJA Type 95 Kurogane Small Personnel Carrier from Hobby Link Japan for 3,230 yen or about $38.66.

http://static.hlj.com/images/pit/pitg-12m.jpg

A fully-finished model of the Japanese kurogane light vehicle of WWII. Includes driver and gunner figure. Get in line for Saki here:

http://www.hlj.com/product/PITG-12M


Offering a little more protection, our second selection is the Dragon 1:35 scale Sd.Kfz.184 ELEFANT Italy from Toy Train Heaven for just $32.89.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR61004.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Get your Chianti here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Millitary--Dragon%20Armor%20Diecast/3168823/DRAGON%20ARMOR%20DIECAST%20Sd.Kfz.184%20ELEFANT%20 Italy%201%3A35%20%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2444.39


From World War I, we next feature the Corgi 1:48 rendition of the Albatros D.V flown by Friedrich "Fritz" Ritter von Röth--Jasta 23B, 1918. Historical Aviation has is for just $26.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091797&size=large

Replicating the colorful Albatros D.V flown by Friedrich "Fritz" Ritter von Röth - a "Blue Max" recipient who, as Germany's highest-scoring balloon buster of World War I, recorded 28 confirmed victories, including 20 balloons - of Jasta 23B in early 1918, this limited edition, 1/48 scale, die cast model features superb details such as real wire bracing; a detailed cockpit with a pilot figure; two forward-firing LM 08/15 machine guns; a rotating propeller; authentic markings, including lozenge camouflage; and more. 8" wingspan; includes a display stand.

Put on your long white flying scarf and click here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12212&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=WWI


Last up this week is the Hobby Master 1:72 scale A-4B Skyhawk, "Gladiator". Asheville Diecast can get you one for $27.50.
http://www.hobbymastercollector.com/files/HA1402-4.JPG

Land this puppy here:

http://ashevillediecast.com/cart.php?target=product&product_id=22589&category_id=515

[KG_Jag]

We hope that all you Yanks, Rebs and westerners had an excellent Thanksgiving and don't want any turkey in our picks for this week.

Our first two armor selections are 21st Century tanks of the 1:32 scale.

The first is for the benefit of any of you who missed getting it late last winter. From Bad Cat for $15.00, it is the camo version of the early war Panzer 38(t).

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2133_147842691 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2133_147718862)

1:32 scale plastic model tank. Prepainted and assembled, ready for display.



Features Include

Rotating turret
Rolling Tracks
Plastic Construction
Length: 6"
Width: 2½"
Czech it out here:

http://www.badcattoys.com/pa3812199fco.html


On the American side--and later during the war--we have the M4 Sherman from the Toy Headquarters for $24.99.

http://www.thetoyhq.com/Shoppingcart/images/US20280S2.jpg

WWII U.S. M4 Sherman Tank

1:32 scale die cast plastic model from 21st Century - The Ultimate Soldier. This is an authentic 1:32 scale replica of a M4 Sherman Tank painted in authentic Army green colors. This tank arrives in a window box with 2 figures included.

Cook some Tommies here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_58_35&products_id=86&osCsid=b0bf8af3019ee2ad0239a5f8dbbca8de


Our last item is a long term "buy it now" listed on eBay from Marrs (I love "hearing" that!). It is a Dragon 1:35 scale Tiger 1 for just $34.99 and with reasonable shipping cost, at least to Texas.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR61014.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Tiger I Late Production w/Zimmerit 2./s.Pz.Abt.102, Normandy 1944.

Get your kitty here:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=360321952006&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT


All of our air craft this week are of the World War II in 1:72 scale flavor. The first two are from Dragon.

We'll open this week's air campaign with the 50123 Spitfire MK.Vb
Trop. 249th Sqn. Takali 1942, Defense of Malta from On Mark for $13.46.

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50123/50123.jpg

It's the only one you can buy here:

http://www.onmarkint.com/static/dragon/dragon_aircraft.php


Flying late in the war for the Germans was the Me.262B-1a Red 35, which Great Models has for $18.70.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50243.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

1/72 Me262B-1a "Red 35", III./E JG 2, May 1945 ~ New Tooling (1st Twin Seater from Dragon)

This twin seater version of the Me262 is all newly tooled to accurately replicate the unique features of this version. It features the markings of Ergänzungs-Jagdgeschwader 2 which was an advanced training unit that operated from the Luftwaffe's Lechfield airbase.

Main Features:
- New aircraft type!NEW
- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Removable Weapons
- Detailed Cockpit
- Pre-assembled
- Display In Flight or In Landing Mode
- Approximate dimensions: 5.79"L x 6.83"W x 2.1"H

About the Me262 twin seater:
Development of the world’s first jet-powered aircraft actually began as early as 1938 in Germany, culminating in the advanced Me262 fighter. A more unusual version of this famous Messerschmitt was the Me262B-1a, a two-seater trainer version that was necessary to help pilots transform from propeller-driven to jet-powered aircraft. Fifteen of these two-seaters were built in the autumn of 1944, with more being subsequently manufactured as night fighter versions equipped with radar.

Bet on red 35 here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRW50243


Our last bird in the air this week is from Hobby Master by way of Wartoyz. It is the U.S. P-39Q Airacobra - 'Old Crow' for $20.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/ha1707-p39q-old-crow-450.jpg

The P-39 Airacobra was one of the main American fighter aircraft in service at the start of World War II. It had an innovative and unusual design, with its V-12 Allison engine mounted in the middle of the fuselage, behind the cockpit, using a driveshaft that passed between the pilot's feet to drive the propeller. This design freed up space for the heavy main armament, which was a 37mm T9 cannon which fired through the center of the propeller hub for maximum stability and accuracy.

This die-cast 1:72 scale U.S. P-39Q Airacobra is part of the Air Power Series from Hobby Master. It depicts the 'Old Crow' P-39Q from by Clarence 'Bud' Anderson of the 357th Fighter Group of the 363rd Fighter Squadron during 1943.

This highly-detailed die-cast U.S. P-39Q is approximately 5 inches long and has a wingspan of approximately 5.5 inches. It has many detailed features, including a movable propeller and a interchangeable undercarriage. The P-39Q comes complete with a pilot figure and a display stand.

Get this unique bird here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/HM-HA1707

[KG_Jag]

First up this week is a 1:50 scale Corgi from their old History Channel line. No, it's not an ice road truck or a pawn star, but a Diecast Model of World War II US Marine Corp M3 Half-Track - Bouganville 1944 from Airplanes and More for $22.99.

http://airplanesandmore.com/prodimages/largeHC60409%20M3%20Halftrack%20USMC.jpg

WORLD WAR II - WAR IN THE PACIFIC COMMEMORATIVE COLLECTION

THE U.S. MARINE CORPS IN THE PACIFIC
The Marine and Army units that fought in the Pacific Theater encountered very different fighting conditions than their counterparts in Western Europe. Jungle warfare, island landings, naval warfare and the tenacity of the Japanese meant that the vehicles the US forces used often had to be modified to battlefield conditions.

This early-model M3 Half-Track with .30-caliber water-cooled machine gun was one of the first used by the Marines in the Pacific. The M3 did not lend itself well to jungle warfare or beach landings, so was not widely used.

Corgi Collection #HC60409.

Give me 20 and click here:

http://airplanesandmore.com/proddetail.php?prod=HC60409 (http://airplanesandmore.com/proddetail.php?prod=HC60409)


If you want something larger, the may be Franklin Mint 1:24 scale M1 Abrams from Squadron is your $93.99 ticket.

http://www.squadron.com/images/large/FM11E207.jpg

The definitive die-cast model of the backbone of the U.S. military's armored forces. Authorized and authenticated by General Dynamics, makers of the real Abrams Tank. Hand-assembled from more than 240 parts in 1:24 scale. Precision-engineered with such working features as pivoting guns, a turret that turns, opening hatches, and moving wheels and treads. Take charge, and enter your order for this powerful tribute to the awesome M1A1 Abrams Tank, and the soldiers who man it.

Approximately 16" in length with cannon.

Head for the desert on this path:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=FM11E207


Continuing on the large size, our first flying favorite this week may fill a big hole on your Christmas shopping list. It is a 1:18 scale Admiral Toys German Luftwaffe CL-13 [aka F-86 Sabre] from The Toy Headquarters for just $19.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/German_CL-13_6.jpg

Aircraft Features
1/18 Scale plastic display model
Movable Landing Gear
Movable Landing Gear Doors
Movable Flaps
Movable Flight Controls
Movable Leading Edge Slats
Movable Gun Ammunition Doors
Movable Canopy
Removable Seat Belt for pilot
Comes with one Pilot Action Figure
Comes with two drop tanks that can be displayed on or off the aircraft
Tampo Printed Markings!!!!
Length 25 1/2 inches
Wingspan 25 1/4 inches
Hight 10 1/4 inches
Limited Release
This is a very attractive display model that can double as a toy.

Land one here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=43&products_id=2192&osCsid=b0bf8af3019ee2ad0239a5f8dbbca8de


Last in the air this week is the Dragon 1:72 scale British Spitfire Mk.Vc UP-A "JEN III" 79th Squadron ~ A58-262, 1944 brought to you by Timewalker Toys for $14.69.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50167.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

1/72 British Spitfire Mk.Vc UP-A "JEN III" 79th Squadron ~ A58-262, 1944

Dragon Warbirds newest release is a Spitfire Mk Vc with the code “UP-A�, with “UP� being the designation for 79 Squadron and “A� being the flight. About 250 of these variants were shipped to Australia from 1943 on wards for use by No. 1 Wing of the RAAF. The “C� in the name referred to the new four 20mm cannons that were carried on the wings. The Spitfire Mk Vc was intended for use as an interceptor against Japanese raids. “Jen III� was flown by Squadron Leader Stan Galton between August and October 1944

Main Features:
- Accurate Spitfire Mk. VB mold
- 1/72 authentic scale
- High quality diecast metal fuselage and wings
- Historically accurate
- Detailed cockpit
- Opening/Closed Canopy option
- Engraved panel lines
- Movable flight control surfaces
- Rotating propeller
- Ready to display
- Display In Flight or In Landing Mode (stand included)

It can be found here:

http://www.timewalkertoys.com/contents/en-us/p380.html


Last up this week is a Michigan Toy Soldiers flash sale special. It is the Oryon 1:35 scale U.S. World War II para special, featuring both the 101st and 82nd, for just $12.00.

http://www.michtoy.com/michtoy2010/products/Picture_ory2003.jpg

Flash over here to drop down on the deal:

http://www.michtoy.com/item-OYN-2003-U.S._Paratroopers.html

[KG_Jag]

With the end of the first season for Boardwalk Empire on HBO having occurred last Sunday night, maybe I can be just a little bit quicker getting out the picks for this week.

First up is a good stocking stuffer from EDG and the Toy Headquarters. Offered for $13.99, it is a 1:43 scale HUMMER Closed Command Car, from EDG DieCast.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/IXE01321_196_EDG_Hummer.jpg

Desert Storm 1991 Fully assembled and ready to display die-cast model. US Army multipurpose vehicle in desert tan camouflage, includes plastic display case. Length about 5 inches.

Find a heavy armor plate to sit on and click here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_58_134&products_id=2712&osCsid=ab219c850391af228044c77f722a6651


For slightly bigger stockings, we feature the Tamiya Masterwork Collection 1:48 scale Panther G Early 1st Pz - Finished - Turret No.211 from Micro Macro Mundo for $43.57.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26514.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26514)

Click here to see it:

http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26514


Our first air selection takes us back to the modern Middle East. From 3000Toys it is the 1:72 scale Panavia Tornado IDS, Royal Saudi Air Force
for just $29.99.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/AA33612.jpg

The Tornado Interdictor Strike (IDS) is the export version equivalent to the RAF's GR.Mk.1, designed by the three members of Panavia - the UK's British Aerospace, Germany's MBB, and Italy's Aeritalia. The Tornado is an exceptional performer and well-suited to low-level high-speed bombing missions, thanks to its advanced navigation/attack system. The system's powerful radar can operate in search, ground mapping, and terrain-following modes. This allowed British, Italian, and Saudi Tornados to engage in many low-level anti-runway bombing sorties early in the 1991 war against Iraq. So successful was the Tornado IDS that nearly 1,000 examples were built, including 402 for the UK, 359 for Germany, 99 for Italy and 96 for Saudi Arabia.

Here's your ticket to a Saudi vacation:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGIAA33612


Last up is the 1:72 scale SH-3D Sea King Helicopter Model, Test Pilot School - Corgi AA33412 - from Showcase Toys for $34.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2134_2145691

Sikorsky SH-3D Sea King Helicopter – Empire Test Pilots School, Boscombe Down, Wiltshire, England, 1987

1:72 scale. Length: 12.25"

This model features historically accurate structural details and emblems, slide-open cargo area door, movable main and tail rotor blades and pilot figures. Includes display stand.

The chopper lands here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa33412-sikorsky-sh-3-sea-king.html

[KG_Jag]

Exactly a week before this Christmas my mom left this world for a better one. These Christmas week picks are made in her honor.

First up was a friend to her brother, a World War II infantryman who still lives in the same Midwestern town in which he was born. It is the 1:48 scale Hobby Master U.S. M4A3 Sherman - 'Classy Peg' from Wartoyz for $24.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/hg1005-m4a3-sherman-peg-450.jpg

The sheer number of Sherman tanks in WWII gave the Allies a distinct advantage, but their quick response, maneuverability, reliability, and ease of maintenance proved the greatest assets.

This 1:48 scale die-cast U.S. M4A3 Sherman depicts the 'Classy Peg' tank from the 43rd Infantry Division as it was seen in the Philippines during January, 1945.

This U.S. M4A3 Sherman tank is part of Hobby Master's Ground Power series. The 1:48 scale die-cast metal vehicle is approximately 5 inches long, and has a turret that rotates and a gun barrel that raises and lowers. It comes complete with a tank commander figure and a collections of accessories such as fuel cans, extra tread sections, packs, and ammo cases.

The American patrol is here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/HM-HG1005



On the other side of the line, you can find the Corgi 1:50 scale KRAUSSE-MAFFEI 8 Ton Sdkfz Half Track German Army from The Toy Headquarters for $21.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG60010.jpg

7 Personnel Carrier - Hohenstaufen, Germany 1945
- Length 5 1/2 inches
- Width 2 inches
- The History Channel Series

Link to it here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_58_70&products_id=1052&osCsid=b0bf8af3019ee2ad0239a5f8dbbca8de


An other World War II machine is the RAF Vickers Wellington Mk.VIII with Working Leigh Light. This one is in the 1:72 scale from Corgi and priced by Wartoyz at $57.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/co-aa34805-wellington-450.jpg

The Vickers Wellington was a twin-engine long range British bomber. Widely used as a night bomber in the early years of World War II, it served throughout the war in other duties and was the only British bomber that was produced during the entire war.

The Type 429 Wellington GR Mark VIII was designed for Coastal Command service and was used for reconnaissance and in anti-submarine and anti-shipping roles. The Gr. VIII was fitted with Air to Surface Vessel (ASV) Mk. II radar and was the first aircraft to be fitted with a Leigh Light. The Leigh Light was a powerful carbon-arc searchlight, and it allowed the aircraft to detect and approach a surfaced submarine using its ASV radar and then switch on the searchlight during its final approach, which didn't allow the U-boat sufficient time to dive while still giving the bomber a clear view of the U-boat.

On 3/4th June, 1942, the first attack on a surfaced submarine at night using a Leigh Light was carried out by a Vickers Wellington of No.172 Squadron, RAF Coastal Command, flown by Squadron Leader J.H. Greswell. The target was the Italian Navy Marconi Class submarine Luigi Torelli. When illuminated, the submarine initially remained on the surface and fired recognition flares, believing the aircraft to be friendly. The Wellington then dropped four Mk8 depth charges, damaging the submarine.

This die cast 1:72 scale version of the Vickers Wellington Mk. VIII depicts an aircraft from the RAF No. 172 Squadron of Coastal Command as it was seen in 1942.

This 1:72 scale RAF Vickers Wellington Mk. VIII is part of Corgi's Aviation Archive series, and it is approximately 10.5 inches long with a wingspan of approximately 14.5 inches. It features a working Leigh Light and includes many detailed features such as antennas and rotating gunner's turret.

This item has been 'retired' by Corgi, and will no longer be available once our current inventory sells out. Order now to avoid missing out on this best seller!

Important Note: Just one of this item is left in stock. It has cosmetic damage to the top of the box, but the plane is in mint condition.

Shine your light here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/CO-AA34805


Also from Corgi in the 1:72 scale is the more modern F6 Lightning XR770 5 Squadron RAF Binbrook 1987. 3000Toys has one for you at $33.95.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/AA32311.jpg

It's on this jet-way:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGIAA32311


Last up this week are Troiani's 1:32 scale (54 mm) Lee's Texans - General Lee with 5 Texas Confederate soldiers. The Hobby Bunker still has this retired set for $109.99, including shipping.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/T001.jpg

The first set is based on the painting "Lee's Texans" depicting General Robert E. Lee and the brave men of the 5th Texas Regiment during the battle of the Wilderness, May 6, 1864. This is a hand-painted pewter limited edition set based on the famous Troiani painting "Lee's Texans." There are only 2000 sets being issued.

Hear the Rebel yell at this rally point:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=1781

[KG_Jag]

This is the last set of weekly picks for 2010.

For our ground bound selections this week, we feature two different versions of the Franklin Mint 1:24 scale Humvee. First up is the desert camo version from the Mint's own on-line store, offered for $57.99.

http://www.diecastmodelswholesale.com/catalog/b11101mvee01.jpg

The soldier’s best friend in Iraq. When equipped with TOW missiles and machine guns, it can engage the enemy in the most inhospitable terrain. Scale size TOW missiles with armament ring that turns 360°. Doors open to provide a view of every instrument and gauge.

This one's parked at the oasis:

http://www.franklinmint.com/Humvee-Operation-Desert-Storm--P8260C196.aspx


For those seeking a more Euro look, we next offer something greenish from Prestige Hobbies for $49.99.

http://www.prestigehobbies.com/images/P/TFMB11A870.jpg

This 1/24 scale diecast model from The Franklin Mint is a Humvee painted for the Operation Enduring Freedom.

Free one here:

http://www.prestigehobbies.com/Humvee-Operation-Enduring-Freedom-Franklin-Mint-1-24.html


Continuing with theme night, our next two selections are 1:32 scale Corgi BF 109 G warbirds. The newest livery is the Aviation Archive Collector Series AA34908. Messerschmitt Bf 109G Luftwaffe JG 50, "Red 1", Hermann Graf. Bad Cat has it. When their 5% off coupon appearing on their home page is applied, it will cost you $80.75.


http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2135_5241728 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/badcattoys_2135_5188054)

Her hanger is here:

http://www.badcattoys.com/bfgr1codiaia.html


Last up this week is the item with look most appropriate for the winter holiday season. From Wartoyz for $57.99, it's the die cast 1:32 scale version of the German Bf. 109G-2 depicts the 'Yellow 12' aircraft flown by Oberleutnant Heinrich Ehrle of Staffelkapitan 6./JG5 as it was seen over Petsamo, Finland 1943.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/co-aa34906-bf109g2-450.jpg

The world became aware of the Messerschmitt Bf. 109 during the Battle of Britain. It is to this day Germany’s best known fighter. Its success lay in its maneuverability and its accurate and stable handling. Throughout WWII, new models were developed. The Bf. 109-G “Gustav� was among the best. The first G-6’s were delivered to fighter units in 1942 and saw extensive service on the eastern Front.

This die cast 1:32 scale version of the German Bf. 109G-2 depicts the 'Yellow 12' aircraft flown by Oberleutnant Heinrich Ehrle of Staffelkapitan 6./JG5 as it was seen over Petsamo, Finland 1943. Heinrich Ehrler achieved 208 victories during World War II. To provide camouflage suited to the terrain over which it was operating, this Yellow 12 aircraft was given a coat of washable paint to which large irregular patched of dark green were added.

This Limited Edition 1:32 scale German Bf. 109G-2 is part of Corgi's Aviation Archive series, and it is approximately 11.5 inches long with a wingspan of approximately 12.5 inches.

This item has been 'retired' by Corgi, and will no longer be available once our current inventory sells out.

Hope you're not on the East Coast tonight, as you will never see this:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/SALE/CO-AA34906

[KG_Jag]

The first installment for 2011 can be found here:

http://www.kampfgruppe.us/showthread.php?t=6984